Are Entrepreneurs Born or Built? The Truth About Learning How to Be One

Photo by Lidia Vi on Unsplash

The image is pervasive: the ‘born entrepreneur’ – a charismatic risk-taker, brimming with innate business acumen. We’ve all seen them portrayed in media, and perhaps even met someone who seems to possess an almost magical ability to launch and scale ventures. But what if that image is a myth? What if the truth is that entrepreneurial ability, like any other skill, is largely learned, not innate?

At Edventures, we believe that everyone has the potential to build something meaningful. The idea that some people are simply born to be entrepreneurs is a dangerous one, because it can hold back countless aspiring founders who believe they lack the ‘right’ genes. The reality is far more empowering: entrepreneurial skills are developed, honed, and refined through experience, learning, and a willingness to embrace failure. This post will explore why this is the case, break down the essential skills needed to succeed, and provide a practical framework for acquiring them – even if you’re starting from scratch.

The myth of the ‘born entrepreneur’

The narrative of the ‘born entrepreneur’ is seductive. It offers a neat explanation for success, attributing it to inherent talent rather than hard work and perseverance. But it’s also deeply problematic. It creates a barrier to entry for those who don’t fit the stereotypical image – often those from underrepresented backgrounds who may lack the traditional networks and resources. It can also lead to self-doubt and imposter syndrome, preventing people from even trying.

Think about it: would we tell a budding musician they’re ‘born’ to play the piano, or would we encourage them to take lessons, practice diligently, and learn from their mistakes? The same principle applies to entrepreneurship. Sure, some individuals definitely possess certain predispositions, like a natural curiosity and a higher comfort with risk, but these are merely starting points. The real magic happens in the learning process.

Consider the story of Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx. She didn’t have a business degree or extensive experience in fashion. What she did have was a problem she wanted to solve, a willingness to experiment, and a relentless determination to learn. She bootstrapped her business, cold-called manufacturers, and built the business from scratch – all through trial and error. Sara’s success wasn’t about innate talent; it was about her ability to learn and adapt.

Essential entrepreneurial skills

So, what are the core skills that separate successful founders from those who struggle? While a formal business education can be helpful, it’s certainly not a prerequisite. Here’s a breakdown of essential skills, and how they manifest in real-world situations:

• Sales: It’s not just about convincing people to buy something; it’s about understanding their needs and building relationships. A founder might need to pitch their idea to investors, negotiate a deal with a supplier, or simply explain their product to a potential customer.
• Marketing: Getting your product in front of the right people requires understanding your target audience and crafting a compelling message. This could involve anything from social media marketing to content creation to paid advertising.
• Finance Basics: Understanding cash flow, profit margins, and basic accounting principles is crucial for managing your business. It’s not about becoming a financial expert, but about being able to make informed decisions about your finances.
• Problem-Solving: Entrepreneurship is essentially a series of problem-solving exercises. You’ll face unexpected challenges, and you need to be able to think creatively and find solutions.
• Resilience: The entrepreneurial journey is full of setbacks and disappointments. The ability to bounce back from failure is essential for long-term success.
• Networking: Building relationships with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and potential investors can open doors and provide valuable support.

These skills aren’t learned in a vacuum. They’re developed through experience, experimentation, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

Learning loops and failure as feedback

The most effective way to acquire these skills is through a process of continuous learning and experimentation. We call this a ‘learning loop’. It involves:

1. Hypothesizing: Formulating a belief about what will work.
2. Experimenting: Testing that belief through action.
3. Observing: Gathering data and feedback on the results.
4. Reflecting: Analysing the results and adjusting your approach.

Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s a crucial part of the learning process. Every setback provides valuable feedback that can help you refine your approach and move closer to your goals. Think of it like a craftsman learning a new skill – they don’t produce a perfect piece on their first attempt. They learn from their mistakes, adjust their technique, and gradually improve their craft.

For example, a founder launching a new app might initially believe that a particular marketing campaign will generate a high volume of downloads. If the campaign falls flat, that’s not a failure – it’s an opportunity to learn. By analysing the data and gathering feedback, the founder can identify what went wrong and adjust their approach for the next campaign.

Accessible learning resources

The good news is that acquiring these skills doesn’t require a costly MBA or years of experience. There are countless accessible resources available to first-time founders:

• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses on topics like marketing, finance, and sales.
• Books: There’s a wealth of literature on entrepreneurship, from classic business books to practical guides for first-time founders.
• Podcasts: Listening to interviews with successful entrepreneurs can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
• Online Communities: Joining online communities like StartupGrind, Reddit’s r/entrepreneur, WhatsApp communities, or Facebook groups for founders can provide a supportive environment for learning and networking.

The power of mentorship and community

While self-directed learning is essential, the guidance of a mentor can be invaluable. A mentor can provide advice, share their experiences, and help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Similarly, joining a supportive community of founders can provide a sense of belonging and a platform for sharing ideas and learning from others.

At Edventures, we believe in the power of community. Our platform is designed to connect founders with each other and with experienced mentors, creating a supportive ecosystem where everyone can learn and grow.

Ultimately, becoming an entrepreneur isn’t about being ‘born’ with a certain set of skills. It’s about embracing a growth mindset, committing to continuous learning, and building a supportive network around you. The entrepreneurial journey is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And with the right tools and support, anyone can build something meaningful.

We’re building a platform to help you do just that. Explore our AI coaching to get personalized guidance on your entrepreneurial journey, or join our founder community to connect with like-minded individuals and access valuable resources.