Wondering if you have what it takes to become an entrepreneur?

Becoming an entrepreneur is hardly a simple feat. It demands empathy, influence, and of course, intelligence. You will inevitably encounter some difficult and unexpected situations and how you navigate these situations will prove your entrepreneurial mettle. It is in these moments of uncertainty that you truly discover whether have what it takes to become an entrepreneur. 

1. You’re at a high-stakes business meeting, and suddenly a dance-off breaks out. How do you handle the unexpected twist?

• a  Stand awkwardly in a corner and wait for the dancing to be over.
• b  Join the dance-off, and show my ability to adapt to any situation.
• c  Take charge of the dance-off, turning it into a team-building exercise and a memorable meeting.

2. Reflecting on your ability to handle unexpected situations, let’s imagine that your business mirrors the intense dynamics of Succession, and you’re faced with a hostile takeover attempt by someone from your family? How would you strategise to maintain control?

• a  ‘Cousin Greg’ my way through.
• b  Get all the shareholders on my side, have their vote of confidence.
• c  Much like Logan Roy, I would plan a revenge takeover myself.

3. Let’s shift focus to your daily routines. Which app do you use the most?

• a  Notes app—to jot down all my billion-dollar ideas.
• b  I am obsessed with Instagram, and posting every single detail of my life online (my screen time
  is disturbing).
• c  The alarm app keeps me going honestly.

4. Now, imagine one of your innovative product launches receiving an apathetic response. How do you react?

• a  Well, obviously I would completely rebrand the product.
• b  Gather feedback, make improvements, and relaunch!
• c  I would organise an attention-grabbing event to create buzz around the product.

5. If your start-up suddenly transforms into a talent show, and you are the judge (ta-da!), what unique talent would impress you the most?

 

• a  A flawless PowerPoint presentation.
• b  A stand-up comedy routine.
• c  A magic show that metaphorically represents the journey from start-up to success.

6. Finally, the most important question of all. Your go-to perfume:

• a  Chanel No.5
• b  Tom Ford Oud Wood
• c  Margiela Replica Jazz Club

MOSTLY As

Budding bob

You may have everything that one needs to become an entrepreneur in theory, but you are not quite there yet in reality. It’s time to embrace a bit more adventure and spontaneity in your entrepreneurial journey. You can’t control everything so stop trying to! Instead, loosen up and relish the journey by incorporating a bit more fun along the way.

MOSTLY Bs

The start-up stargazer

While you may not be considered the ultimate entrepreneur, rest assured that you are headed in the right direction, striking a balance between innovation and risk-taking. With a dash of strategy here and a touch of implementation there, you have the potential to evolve into a thriving entrepreneur. Keep up the good work!

MOSTLY Cs

Future founder

Congratulations on being the Gwyneth Paltrow of this generation! You know how to make the most out of whatever little you have. You exude perfection and epitomise the entrepreneurial spirit. Way to go!

This article originally appeared in Cosmopolitan India, March-April, 2024 print issue. 

Also read: How to deal with a job that doesn’t respect your boundaries 

Also read: How to not get intimidated by your friends' career growth