Starting up a business requires a diversity of assets. First-time entrepreneurs feel anxious when they think about all the factors that play a role if their ideas are ever to get off the ground. In their minds, success or failure seems to hinge upon finding deep-pockets funders, expert mentors, ample press coverage, and other “champions.” But the truth is, you already possess some of the most important assets you’ll need to achieve success —the awesome power of your own head (think), your own heart (feel), and your own hands (do).
Succeed with your head (think): The impact of innovative ideas. Big or small, every successful business begins with an innovative idea. It’s good to have role models in business, but you should not seek to mimic someone else’s success. Successful businesses are always built from the special aptitudes and unique insights of the people who founded them. Your truly innovative idea will be as one-of-a-kind as you are.
Succeed with your heart (feel): The power of positive belief. In order to bring your idea to fruition, you must genuinely believe in it. Good luck persuading others to invest if you cannot convince them of your own passionate belief. An idea for a business might seem “great,” but if it fails to ignite your sense of passion, it probably isn’t the right one for you. Go back to the drawing board and come up with an idea you can truly commit to.
Succeed with your hands (do): The effectiveness of effort. The brainiest ideas and most heartfelt belief are of little value without the resolve to take action and work hard. You will sometimes hear people explain a business leader’s success by giving credit to “good luck.” People who talk like this have little knowledge or practical experience of business. If you believe in succeeding through perseverance, you have the right frame of mind to be an entrepreneur—those who believe in success through luck might be better served to buy lottery tickets. In business there is no such thing as luck; you achieve success because you are willing to work hard for it.
