The Last Lecture

Throughout the course of this past semester, I have learned so much about entrepreneurship and what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Some of the things that I learned surprised me, other things I had already considered. I would like to share a few of those most important items that I am taking with me from this class that have impacted my future plans and influenced my decisions regarding my future and what type of career I would like to pursue.
First, set goals! I struggle with goal setting. I tend to go with the flow but I realized that an entrepreneur cannot simply go with the flow and see where life takes them. While it is good to be flexible, it's so important that you have short term and long term goals set that will guide you and help to motivate you to push forward when times are difficult. Having goals puts things into perspective and helps you to make the correct decisions.
Next, have a personal constitution. This was something that really stood out to me. I had never even heard of a personal constitution. The world of business can be scary to some people because they feel it is full of greed and causes people to do things they wouldn't normally do because of money. That's why a personal constitution is so important. This is the perfect referral point anytime your values may be compromised. This states who you are and what you want to be. Whenever you find yourself doing something that is maybe questionable you can ask yourself if those actions align with your personal constitution of the kind of person you want to be. If they don't, then you can switch gears and make sure that you were moving closer to the person you want to become rather than further.
Another important thing to remember is that balance is key. You do not have to lose your family to be an entrepreneur and you don't have to lose your business to have a family. Learning the ability to sacrifice, set boundaries, and communicate are all things that help those who juggle entrepreneurship with a family. It's very possible to have a happy family life as well as a thriving business but it takes effort.
Being okay with failure is something that many people struggle with but if you're considering entrepreneurship then you better prepare to experience some failures and setbacks, it's almost inevitable. Having the ability to accept the failure humbly, learn from the failures, then rebound and try again is vital. Don't get down on yourself because you failed. Move forward with more resolve to do better the next time. Some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world faced failure and then it was followed by great success.
The ability to overcome failure is dependent upon you believing in yourself. Stay positive and trust that you know what you're doing and can be successful. You have to have a strong sense of self-confidence to do well as an entrepreneur and that all begins with believing in yourself and your talents and abilities.
Finally, include the Lord in everything you do. Pray over important decisions, trust revelation you receive and act promptly, put the gospel first, and never do anything that would compromise your relationship with him. If you do that, you will be guided and directed and see success.