28 Chapter 1 Exploring Careers
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
position. Remember that even unpleasant work experiences can provide
chances to learn and grow as a professional. Be sure to thank your
employer for the opportunities your present position offered.
Creating Your Own Job
Another option to fi nding a job is creating your own job. Many
people fulfi ll their career goals by creating their own jobs rather
than working for others. Entrepreneurs start and manage their own
businesses. They also assume all risks and responsibilities. For many
people, entrepreneurship is a rewarding and satisfying experience.
Entrepreneurship: Pros and Cons
Being an entrepreneur has both advantages and disadvantages.
One main advantage is that you are your own boss. You make your own
decisions, rules, and business policies. You can be as creative as you desire in
trying new ideas. You create your own work schedule. If you manage your
business well, you have the potential to make as much money as you want.
Being an entrepreneur has some disadvantages as well. Until the
business develops a good reputation, entrepreneurs must work long hours
on weekdays and weekends. Entrepreneurs must buy their own health
and business insurance. They must fi nd out what legal requirements
apply to them and adhere. Often no profi t is made in the fi rst year. Most
entrepreneurs live off their savings until their businesses start to make
money. If you make a wrong decision, you cannot blame anyone else.
Financial problems and poor management are two common reasons for
failures of new businesses.
Getting Started
If you think you have what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur,
you can start at any time. Your business should be something you enjoy
doing. Few people combine their interests, aptitudes, and abilities into
a truly customized job. However, people who acquire the needed skills
and work hard can achieve their goals.
Sometimes the hardest part is deciding what to do. You must study
your interests, aptitudes, and abilities to make a good decision. The
suggestions in 1-15 may spark your imagination. The examples listed in
the table show only a few of the many ways students can earn money.
Sources of Help
The Small Business Administration’s website answers many
common questions and links to the state Departments of Commerce.
Many regulations that affect small businesses are set by the states.
Your local chamber of commerce may also be able to help you check
for local regulations. These sources may be free or require a small fee.
Personality and
Entrepreneurship
According to the Five
Factor Model, happy,
successful entrepreneurs
have fi ve general qualities.
One quality is emotional
stability, or not given to
excessive fear, anger, or
anxiety. Another quality
is agreeableness, or the
ability to be approachable,
fl exible, and open to others’
ideas. Extroversion, or the
tendency to be outgoing
and friendly, is also helpful.
Entrepreneurs must also be
conscientious, especially
in meeting deadlines and
keeping commitments.
Finally, entrepreneurs
should be open to new
experiences.
Mental
Health
Awareness