Top 5 Signs You Are an “Anti-Preneur”

I have coined a new word which I introduced in a speech to the Women’s Business Network a few years ago: The “Anti-Preneur”

This is a person who thinks they are an entrepreneur, but in fact they are exactly the opposite. Much is written about the skill set needed by an entrepreneur, but clearly the message has not reached some of its intended audience because there are still far too many people who wander into starting a business because they can’t find a job. This is not a good reason!

Since it’s a well-known fact that humour is often the best way to get a message through, I have created the top 5 “Signs You Are an Anti-Preneur” (drum roll, please):

#1  You haven’t exactly determined who would buy what you’re selling and how much they would be willing to pay, but you’re convinced it’s going to be the next big thing…

#2  You aren’t that good at getting your kids to do their chores, but you’re sure managing staff can’t be that hard…

#3  It hadn’t really occurred to you that there’s no safety net if you fail, but you’re sure your parents would let you move back in…

#4  You haven’t filed a tax return for years because you keep losing your T4 slips, but you don’t think that’s a big deal…

#5  And the #1 sign you’re an anti-preneur: You are completely averse to paying a professional to perform the elements of business management you are not as good at.

Of course, there are many more “signs” I could list, but the important message is to be very honest with yourself before deciding that self-employment is for you. Just because you have a skill does not mean you should turn that into a business. I have encountered people like this in my years as an accountant. They make their lives miserable! And the lives of their friends and family, too.

Gwyneth James MBA CPA, CGA

 

Cody & James Chartered Professional Accountants