May 17, 2018

As you’re scrolling through your social media feed that’s filled with 20-something success stories, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of jealousy. You may start to think, “What am I doing wrong?”, “Am I ever going to accomplish as much as them?” or “I’ll never be able to do that.”

The secret is, you’re doing nothing wrong. Many people have a misconception about entrepreneurship, and believe that being an entrepreneur simply means that you launched your own company. Although this is technically true, the fact is you can be entrepreneurially-minded in any career field.

At the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship, we believe that entrepreneurial mindsets are developed. This means anyone, that’s right - anyone, can broaden their entrepreneurial streak. Read below for tips on how you can strengthen the skills you already possess to make yourself more entrepreneurial.

Think big

You’ve likely heard “think big” many times, but there is a reason why this phrase has stood the test of time. Decide what you want to accomplish and determine realistic goals. This can include what you plan on achieving by the end of the week, like getting an A on a project, or within the next five years, such as earning your dream position in a Fortune 100 company! Dream big, and don’t give up on the day dream that keeps you going.

Be flexible

Flexibility goes hand-in-hand with thinking big and establishing your goals. Although it is a good idea to be as specific as possible with the expectations you wish to accomplish for yourself, you also should remember that plans can be altered: either by external forces or your own realizations. Stay flexible, yet focused your overall goals.

Keep learning

No matter what education or career stage you are in, there is still plenty to learn. Absorb as much information as you can while in college. Use your electives to take courses in studies that interest you or listen to webinars to gain more insight. Passion for their field is what fuels people to pursue their goals.

Network

Get out there! You might not think this is necessary, but networking helps create valuable connections that can lead to job opportunities or freelance gigs. Remember those influencers you saw on social media? They don’t just stay at home, they make it their duty to network with peers and colleagues! Attend university events or panel discussions. Taking advantage of opportunities like the Proving Ground or Startup Fest helps you learn more about your passions and allows you to make connections with people who share your interests.

Learn when to yes, and when to say no

Even seasoned professionals can have a tough time knowing when they should say agree to or turn down an offer in a business environment. When you’re first starting on your career path, you may agree to overwhelming amounts of work out of a fear of missing out. On the other hand, you might turn down opportunities because of a fear of failure. Either way, you must learn balance.

As a good rule of thumb, if you feel your morals and ethics would be compromised by a request, it’s a no; but say “yes” to events, connections and opportunities that will help you flourish as a young professional.

Talk to the experts

Engaging in conversation with an established professional can give you insight on how you can be entrepreneurially minded even outside of business settings. Speak with professors, faculty members and student entrepreneurs when you have the chance - you never know who may become a mentor.

Sarah Temple, Communications, Drexel University