I came across an interesting article over at Entrepreneur.com that I like to share with you. The article details 25 common characteristics of successful entrepreneurs. The author believes that successful people have similar traits and I agree with him. Other factors may play a part like family fortunes and education. But these factors are not at play when someone comes from nothing and makes it to the top. I’m talking about  people that I’ve profiled like Chris Gardner and Tyler Perry. Other forces are at work here. Mr. Stephenson, the author of the article, complies a good list the things successful people have in common.  You can check out the article for details on each trait. I added some commentary to personalize it. 

1.  Do what you enjoy. This is an absolutely crucial first step. You’re already miserable at your day job, why build a business around misery.
2. Take what do seriously if you don’t nobody else will.
3.  Plan for everything
4.  Manage money wisely This can be hard to do, especially if you are starting a business while still working like myself. Set yourself up for success by getting an idea of the cost s you might incur doing the business and plug those into a budget before you start the business. This way you’ll how the business will affect you financially before you get in over your head.
5. Ask for the sale What’s the worst that can happen? You got into business to make money and you need customers for that to happen.
6. It’s all about the customer
7. Become a shameless prompter. This may be hard for those who don’t have a sales background. Take the time to learn how to effectively promote yourself and your business. 
8. Project a positive business image. 
9. Get to know your customer. 
10. Level the playing field with technology.  
11. Build a top notch business team. A word to wise, steer away from using families and friends. 
12. Become known as an expert. 
13. Create a competitive advantage. Here’s a hint: look at what your competition isn’t doing and try to make that part of your business.
14. Invest in yourself.
15. Be accessible 
16. Build a rock solid reputation. If you follow this list effectively you will nail this one.  
17. Sell benefits
18. Get involved.
19. Grab attention
20. Master the art of negotiations
21. Design a work space for success
22. Get and stay organized. Easier said than done!
23. Take time off.
24. Limit the number hats you wear
25. Follow up constantly. 

 5 Things I Would Add

This is great list  but I thinks there 5 characteristics that should be included:

1. Be a risk taker. You have to come out of your shell; step out of your comfort zone. Like the saying goes, "no risk,no reward"
2. Never give up. Yes, you will hit obstacles along the way but you must figure out how to move past them. Sometimes yo may have to scrap your plans all together and start over. So be it. Just don’t stop!
3. Help others. You are ultimately helping yourself when you help others. You can increase you knowledge, your skills, and your network by being there for other people.
4. Aim higher. This accompanies risk taking. Don’t settle for what everyone else is settling for. You can do better, you will do better. Just aim for the stars.
5. Be Thankful. Some people don’t have what you have now. Appreciate what you have and who have in your life. They  make it all worth while.