People who plan to start their own businesses may draw inspiration from famous entrepreneurs such as Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Jack Ma. These innovators each had unique journeys. Most involved special skill sets coupled with some lucky breaks. Their lives are inspiring, but similar paths won’t necessarily produce the same results. For example, dropping out of college doesn’t guarantee you the status of Jobs and Zuckerberg. Here are a few myths of business success.
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Entrepreneurs birthed themselves
Successful entrepreneur develop winning ideas in the process of working for others. You do not start a business after spending many years locked up in your room planning how to conquer the world. Most entrepreneurs today were employees who gained their experience while working for others.
Entrepreneurs work solo
Some successful entrepreneurs work alone, but they are more of an exception than the rule. Most entrepreneurs today work in cooperation with other people. It is not uncommon to find a group of associates or friends banding together to start their own business after quitting their day jobs.
Entrepreneurs begin great
The common misconception is that entrepreneurs are born for grandeur and will achieve impressive heights at young ages. The truth is that many successful people don’t make their fortune in business until they’re nearing their golden years. This means that you shouldn’t count yourself out of entrepreneurship because you think you are too old. So if you’re in your 30’s, 40’s, or even 50’s and haven’t struck it rich yet, keep working. Great entrepreneurs are shaped over time. Take it from Gary Vaynerchuck.
Many a great movie has been made about corporate dynamos, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Don’t be so wowed by the mystique surrounding these innovators that you think they were somehow super-human. Their story lines may be exciting, but they were backed up by plenty of long days at the office, failures, and good old-fashioned hard work.
