Persistence Pays
Some individuals just seem to be at the right place at the right time.
Our typical reaction is that "some people have all the luck."
But, after years of working with business owners and managers, I believe
that there is considerable merit to the old adage: "Success is 98
percent perspiration and 2 percent inspiration."
Yes, winning the lottery is that million to one element of luck. But a close examination of most success stories reveals an individual with the drive and determination to accomplish a particular feat. Abraham Lincoln lost more elections than he won. But Mr. Lincoln holds a place in history because he persisted.
Here are some of the characteristics that I have observed in entrepreneurs. And, by the way, entrepreneurs are not just individuals who make lots of money running businesses. Entrepreneurs are individuals who successfully make an impact in their chosen field of endeavor.
Entrepreneurs convey a positive outlook on life and on their endeavor. They believe that they have the right idea at the right time and that they will succeed. Set backs are seen as challenges, not obstacles.
These individuals are pro-active. Rather than just responding to events around them, they make things happen. They initiate activity. Drawing on creative or inventive talents, the entrepreneur tries to find a better way to do something.
The entrepreneur creates a plan to achieve his or her objective. The plan may be formal written guide, or it may be a concept in his or her mind. But this plan defines an objective, and actions are taken each day to move closer toward achievement of that objective.
Perspiration occurs when we engage in hard work. The entrepreneur puts forth the effort, work, and hours needed to achieve the goal. For many activities, this comes in the form of practice and preparation.
Persistence pays. Entrepreneurs continually work towards achieving their goal, often after others have given up. As one successful individual observed, "I worked hard for ten years to become an overnight success."
Professionalism is another hallmark of the typical entrepreneur. Time and effort is committed to do the task properly, correctly, and accurately. A "good-enough" or "get - by " effort is not tolerated for oneself or others.
An entrepreneurial spirit is one of the elements that made our country a great place in which to live and work. Whether we are a worker or boss, student or teacher, homemaker or home builder, in a profit or non-profit sector, the entrepreneurial spirit can contribute to our success, regardless of how we define success.
About the Author . . .
. . . William S. Hubbartt is president of Hubbartt & Associates, a
St. Charles, IL consulting firm specializing in employee compensation,
employee handbooks, personnel policies and supervisory training. (www.Hubbartt.com)
Mr. Hubbartt is author "The Medical Privacy Rule - A Guide for Employers
and Health Care Providers.
