The question is often asked why are you in business or why do you want to be in business?
The Traditional view
- To make money;
- To be your own boss;
- To keep yourself busy. A way to pass the time;
- Because I don’t have a formal education to get a permanent job;
- Parents or family started it and I must keep it going;
The Modern thinking
- To build a business system;
- To earn a living: you take care of a business so the business can take care of you;
- To become a prominent entrepreneur;
- To make a difference in the lives of those around me;
- To impact my community;
- To leave a legacy for my children.
It should be noted that some businesses outlast others because of the owners’ attitude. If it is a once‐off trading venture, for example, selling a batch of T-shirts, the business ends as soon as the entrepreneur receives payment.
The purpose of starting a business should be with longer term objectives and with the intention of stimulating growth. It should be ongoing, not a one-time event. The entrepreneur should ask themselves – “Am I doing this with a business approach or simply as a family tradition? Does it offer returns? Will it be sustainable?”
The reason some people keep jumping from one enterprise to another is because they lack vision about what they are doing. Usually, they have never done it before and they are reluctant to develop their skills before investing money in the business. If your desire is to build a business empire that will sustain you over your life-time and then leave a legacy for your children, then you need to carefully consider your options before making a hasty decision about what business to be in.
The AHi is awaiting your call to help you with designing your unique business model.
