I remember my father opposing my dream to start my business.
“Hector, you can’t do it. You’re too young and lack experience. You will fail!”
“Okay, I probably can’t do it alone dad, but you could always guide me!” I debated.
“No Hector! You’re a student. You must graduate before you walk into the business world. Starting your business is a BAD idea!”
“Dad, remember how I learned swimming? Did you teach me swimming in the water or outside the water? I can still remember you throwing me into the water! I hated it! I was so scared and you helped me overcome those fears!”
“Yes, I remember,” he said.
“Can you find any difference with how we learn entrepreneurship? College will NEVER teach me this. I learn by doing! I believe this is no exception, to learn entrepreneurship I must live through the process!” I said.
“You must finish your college before you get started! College is your insurance to the future!” he demanded.
Thankfully, I disobeyed him and eventually started my journey..
To answer your question:
- Which skills? Every skill must be focused towards this core principle:
- Be customer centric!
- Give your customers what they want, listen to them and serve them with all your heart.
- Get started!
- NEVER stop learning!
- Surround yourself with positive people.
- You will learn the skills living through the process.
It’s impossible to become an expert “swimmer” without getting wet!
Entrepreneurship is an art, not a science!