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It takes courage
to be in business

There are plenty of small-business owners who have incredible intelligence, yet still struggle in achieving lasting `success. You may even know people who are talented beyond imagination, yet haven't yet found "real success." Ultimately, small-business success comes down to having the "right" attitude.

Although the "right" attitudes may vary depending on how your company is structured and what responsibilities rest on your shoulders, there are some attitudes that are required across all industries and professions. "Courage" is one of them.

Some people might say that courage is not an attitude, it's a feeling. Yet if you ask the heroes who put their lives on the line they will probably tell you they didn't "feel courageous" right before a heroic act.

For example, a firefighter I spoke with after the 9/11 tragedy reflected how he moved forward in spite of any fear that may have entered his mind.

Being an entrepreneur also takes courage.

Entrepreneurs who take on the unknown risks of starting a new business often report feeling nervous and unsure of their future.

Regardless of not "feeling ready" for everything that lies ahead, they take the first step in faith to pursue things yet to be seen. That very action is what develops momentum and propels them toward their business goals. Just before they take that action, the words, "Just do it," flash through their minds, and suddenly they're off running toward the finish line!

Courage is an action. It is taking the first step in starting your own business or pursuing a goal you've been talking about for years. It is going above and beyond the call of duty on the job.

It takes courage to say, "Enough is enough. This is the year I take control of my destiny, and start looking at the attitudes I must develop to succeed."

Courage means doing things that you don't "feel" like doing simply because you know these actions will move you closer to your goals.

Courage means no more excuses -- no blaming your situation on the economy, the state you live in or the "luck" everyone else seems to have.

WARNING: Too often, people envy the things they see that others have achieved without pushing through and taking all the courageous actions those other people took to get there. This is one of the greatest outright killers of success. Be aware of it so you can avoid getting hooked in this trap!

Learn how others ahead of you got there, appreciate the sacrifices they've made, and learn from their hard work. Ultimately, you must stay focused on your own goals. Keep pushing and be courageous. When you do, you'll be in good company.