Don't Want it Too Badly

Reproduced with the permission of Joel Block below:

This is a difficult issue, in part because of the nature of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs must be willing to take risks. But these risks must be calculated, and expectations must be realistic. Entrepreneurs who regularly take "flyers" on the chance that a dramatic act will bring dramatic success will eventually find that their decisions can work against their "big-picture" goals.

The desire to succeed burns bright in every entrepreneur - just make sure it doesn't blind you to the reality of the "opportunities" in front of you. One problem I encounter in entrepreneurs is a desire to achieve dramatic success the entrepreneur throws good judgment to the wind and plunges headlong into situations that are anything but beneficial.

Managing your expectations - and weighing your actions against clear goals - is a must for entrepreneurs. Don't forget what you are trying to accomplish. Is the act you are contemplating really going to get you where you want to be - or are you undertaking just to make something, anything, happen? What does your good judgment say?

So, as you are working hard every day to build your company, or as you're building your career, recognize that one of the best ways to make sure that your decisions will advance your goals is to talk to people who have been there and are already walking in the shoes you would like to put on.