Skip to main content
Startup Service
➔ Start your studies with us

Startup ABC #7: Entrepreneurial Mindset

Entrepreneurial Mindset—The Key to Success?

What exactly does THE entrepreneurial mindset entail? And do you have everything it takes to make your dream of self-employment a reality? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the “entrepreneurial mindset.”

At one of the most recent workshops on “Entrepreneurial Skills”—which I attended myself—we asked ourselves exactly the questions mentioned above. That’s actually where the word cloud (see image) came from, which provides an overview of some of the skills that first come to mind in this context. Are you also surprised by how many skills there are? I was, too. That’s why I’ve summarized what I consider to be the most important skills for you here. 

Top 3 "Entrepreneurial Mindset"

  1. First of all, most founders certainly have a certain mindset. This so-called “entrepreneurial mindset” reflects an approach that enables them to overcome challenges, make decisive choices, and take responsibility for their results. There’s a constant need to improve one’s skills, learn from mistakes, and continuously work toward one’s goals. The key point here is that anyone who’s willing to put in the effort can develop an entrepreneurial mindset!
    Tip: Clausthal University of Technology already offers several courses that can help you develop the skills needed for entrepreneurial thinking and action. You can find more information here: www.gruendung.tu-clausthal.de/veranstaltungen/lehrveranstaltungen

  2. You need the courage to make decisions! To be successful as an entrepreneur, it’s important to develop the ability to analyze a situation or problem, evaluate the available data, and make a bold decision to move forward. The ability to make decisions in a timely manner can have a decisive impact on a company’s success. To put it bluntly: Hesitating and dithering for too long is one of the main causes of entrepreneurial failure. Worse than taking any action at all is waiting and doing nothing. So, why not practice making decisions in your everyday life and try not to put them off?
    Tip: You’ll find an interesting post on the topic of “motivation” on our blog!

  3. Do you know the saying “Fake it till you make it”? This phrase is, of course, a bit of an exaggeration, but there’s a lot of truth to it. Especially at the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey, you can feel very insecure and lost. Nevertheless, it’s incredibly important—especially at the start—to win over potential partners, investors, and, of course, customers. Coming across as unsure can be counterproductive here. But what can you do to gain self-confidence?
    Tip: Gradually get used to the uncomfortable feeling of knowing that you don’t know everything. In many cities, you can also join an improv theater group and let your spontaneity run wild without a script. Want something a little less dramatic? Then why not start your own blog or share your ideas on social media? Here, too, you’ll be exposing yourself to public opinion, and uncertainty is unavoidable. That’s actually a good thing. Let a little uncertainty into your life in small doses so you can get used to it!

If you’re already thinking about throwing in the proverbial towel, let me tell you this: Of course, it’s great if you already embody all these skills, but (most) entrepreneurs aren’t born with them. What truly defines entrepreneurs is a strong will to acquire everything that serves their goal. Of course, some talents may come naturally, but even if they don’t, you can train yourself to develop the skills that are most important to you. You just have to want it!
 

Key Takeaways

  1. “Entrepreneurial thinking and action” is a skill that can be learned.

  2. Entrepreneurs aren’t afraid to deal with uncertainty and seek out challenges.

  3. Train your mindset in small doses as part of your everyday life!

 

Published on February 21
, 2022 Author: Andrea Lutsch