Times Are Tough, But Don't Be A Victim
by Michael D. Hume, M.S.
There are two types of people: The Entrepreneur, who takes initiative and controls her own destiny, and the Victim, who needs taking care of and acts as though the world is out to get him.
In fact, both types live inside each of us, and it's important to feed your Entrepreneurial image and starve your inner Victim. Only in this way can you become a more inspirational leader, as most of my clients hope to do.
Victims are political creatures, carefully concealing their true intentions and feelings. They're critical of others, and very competitive.
By contrast, Entrepreneurs are courageous, choosing to boldly proclaim their goals and aspirations. They are curious about other people, usually looking for something to appreciate about everyone they meet. And they're very collaborative.
Victims believe life is being done to them. Entrepreneurs believe it's up to them to get things done in life.
It's been my privilege to coach and counsel many of the world's brightest consultants and business people... and it's a privilege for which I feel quite blessed. I will say that the biggest trend I've spotted in all my clients has been a desire (perhaps even a need) to be more inspirational to those around them. Whether it's building inspirational leadership for the team at work, or even exuding inspiration in family or private life, people ask me all the time how they can become more inspirational. The answer I've discovered is this: while the weaker side of each of us tends toward the Victim, only the Entrepreneur in each of us can be inspired, and therefore inspirational to others.
Whether you own your own business, make your money through investing, or have a traditional job, you need to take personal responsibility for maximizing your Entrepreneurial spirit this year. The challenges out there are tough, and you'll need to bring forth you very best to beat them.
You can do it.
Here's wishing you a happy, healthy, prosperous, and truly Entrepreneurial 2011. This time next year, I hope we're all celebrating the big steps forward we've made as Entrepreneurs, and as inspirational leaders.
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