The mindset of a woman entrepreneur

Have you considered entrepreneurship? According to the Small Business Administration women-owned small businesses are one of the fastest growing segments of our economy. If you are considering entrepreneurship, there are many factors that will help to get your business off to the right start such as planning, preparation, financing and marketing. But above all else, the most important element of successful entrepreneurship, is the mindset of the woman entrepreneur.

Visionary: One key characteristic of the mindset of a woman entrepreneur is the ability to give life to her vision. From the initial idea to its implementation, it takes a visionary woman to develop a product or service and bring it to market. It is that vision that keeps the woman entrepreneur focused and driven to achieve.

Self-motivation: Women entrepreneurs are self-motivated. It takes a high amount of discipline to consistently keep up with the demands of running a business and managing your personal life. Especially during the early stages of business development when every aspect of the day-to-day operations depend on you. Self-motivation is important when there is no one to hold you accountable, but you.

Perseverance: If there is one factor that distinguishes a successful woman entrepreneur from an unsuccessful one, it's the ability to persevere. Entrepreneurship tests you in ways that a 9-5 job can never do. As a woman entrepreneur, you will be faced with challenges and you will meet failure. There will be many moments of discouragement when you will ask yourself whether you are doing the right thing. Your ability to persevere; to try, fail, re-work your plan and try again will determine your level of success.

Are you ready for entrepreneurship? If you have a vision, are self-motivated, and possess a spirit of perseverance, you are well on your way.

Ellie Nieves is a women's leadership speaker. Through her keynote presentations, breakouts, retreats and workshops she helps women to develop leadership skills, set strategic goals, bolster effectiveness and create a personal brand. For more information visit www.EllieNieves.com or e-mail ellie@ellienieves.com.

© 2010 by Ellie Nieves. All rights reserved. Reprints must include byline, contact information and copyright.