Hello Reader, Are you a Next Level Self-Starter?

When starting your first business venture, it's crucial to understand what it means to be a self-starter. Over the years, I've interviewed hundreds of employees at various levels, and many fail to meet basic employment requirements, needing retraining or termination. It's unsurprising that many consider themselves self-starters yet only perform at a “Meets Expectations” level.

Key Traits of a Good Employee

Typically, good employees exhibit several key traits:

• Reliable – Show up on time and completes tasks as promised.
• Competent – Possesses the necessary KSA’s to perform well within their scope of employment.
• Good Communicator – Effectively communicates with colleagues and supervisors.
• Teamwork – Works well with others.
• Adaptability – Can adjust to new tasks and challenges in the workplace.
• Problem-Solver – Identifies issues and finds solutions independently.
• Professional – Maintains respect and courteous demeanor.
• Accountable – Takes responsibility and learns from their mistakes.
• Continuously Improves – Seeks opportunities to grow and improve their skills.

I have no criticism for employees who consistently meet expectations; they maintain solid careers and earn fair wages for honest work. Millions strive to do a good job without seeking higher responsibility. However, if you consider this the mark of a self-starter, you may need to re-evaluate your performance or career choice.

What is a Self-Starter?

Self-starters focus on adding value, regardless of their role. Key traits and behaviors of a self-starter include the previous list, and add the following:

• Initiative - Self-starters don't wait for instructions. They identify what needs to be done and take action independently^1,2.
• Motivation - They are driven by personal goals and a desire to achieve, often going above and beyond their basic duties¹.
• Confidence - Self-starters trust their judgment and are willing to make decisions without constant supervision¹.
• Resilience - They can handle setbacks and adapt to changes, finding alternative solutions to problems¹.
• Discipline - They maintain focus and prioritize their tasks effectively, even in the face of distractions².

By embodying these traits, self-starters can contribute significantly to their teams and organizations, often taking on leadership roles and driving projects forward. But I suggest that while these traits certainly position you as the “Self-Starter,” they might not directly translate into being a successful Entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurial Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

Besides the innovative technical skills you possess, starting and running a successful business requires a diverse set of skills:

• Leadership - The ability to inspire and guide your team towards achieving business goals.
• Financial Management - Understanding how to manage budgets, cash flow, and financial planning.
• Marketing and Sales - Skills in promoting your products or services and closing sales.
• Strategic Planning - The ability to set long-term goals and develop plans to achieve them.
• Customer Service - Ensuring customer satisfaction and building strong relationships.
• Time Management - Efficiently managing your time and prioritizing tasks.
• Networking - Building and maintaining professional relationships that can support your business.
• Problem-Solving - Quickly identifying issues and finding effective solutions.
• Adaptability - Being flexible and able to pivot when necessary.

This is where the rubber meets the road, and I get to address some misconceptions of business ownership. You may be the best at what you do, but that may not translate into running a successful business. Your primary role as an entrepreneur is to lead. You are the visionary, innovator, & “Chief Problem-Solver!”

Today, the question you must ask yourself is “Am I a Self-Starter?”

In the context of being an entrepreneur, the question becomes “Am I a Chief Problem-Solver?”

"Can I remain committed, focused and motivated to solve problems that will arise from across the continuum of my business – every day."

Remember, you don’t get to work within a system of processes. Your job is to create the system, refine the process, and delight your customers.

Most newly minted business owners will tell you, “I didn’t expect it to be this hard.”

Self-Actualization: The Next Level Self-Starter

Successful entrepreneurs possess a certain 'je ne sais quoi.' Few people attempt to start their own business, and even fewer succeed. The magic lies in evolving to a level of self-actualization by being an exceptional self-starter. This journey can be a trial by fire, as self-actualization involves realizing and fulfilling your potential and capabilities. It's the highest level of psychological development according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs:

• Initiative and Growth - A self-starter takes the initiative and actively seeks opportunities for growth. This proactive approach is essential for self-actualization, which involves continuously striving to realize one's potential.
• Independence and Autonomy - Self-starters are independent and make decisions without needing constant guidance. Self-actualization requires autonomy and the ability to make choices that align with one's true self.
• Goal-Oriented and Purpose - Self-starters set and pursue goals diligently. Self-actualization involves finding and fulfilling one's purpose, which often includes setting and achieving meaningful goals.
• Adaptability and Authenticity - Self-starters adapt to changing circumstances and challenges. Self-actualization involves being authentic and true to oneself, which requires flexibility and the ability to evolve.
• Resilience and Fulfillment - Self-starters are resilient and persist through setbacks. Self-actualization is about achieving fulfillment and peak experiences, which often come from overcoming obstacles and persevering.

In essence, being a self-starter provides the drive needed to reach self-actualization. Self-actualization is about becoming the best version of yourself and living a life that is true to your values and aspirations. The self-actualized version of yourself acts from a position of power, is fueled by a feeling of purpose, builds on a foundation of personal truth, carries a shield of grit and determination, and extends a hand of service to your business and personal relationships. Self-Actualization is a powerful ally in preventing burnout, prioritizing tasks, evaluating opportunities, maintaining your health and well-being, and achieving work-life balance.

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1. MindTools. (n.d.). How to be a self-starter. Retrieved from https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_57.htm
2. Indeed Editorial Team. (2021, February 22). How to be a self-starter at work. Indeed Career Guide. Retrieved from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-be-a-self-starter