When stuck with a boring
job or a dreadful boss, almost everyone dreams of working for
themselves. In our fantasies, self-employment means taking control of
our destiny, doing what we want with our time, taking on only tasks that
we enjoy, and possibly making pots of money.
The reality, however, is
often quite different. And many people are simply not suited for the
challenges and stresses of self-employment. To assess your own
“business personality”, see if you agree or disagree with the following
statements.
Agree
Disagree
Do you have a “business personality”?
4
3
2
1
1.I grew up around people who worked for themselves.
4
3
2
1
2.I am strongly driven to set my own agenda.
4
3
2
1
3.I have more good ideas than I could possibly
pursue.
4
3
2
1
4.I don’t always follow the standard instructions.
4
3
2
1
5.I enjoy movies about people who face challenging
situations.
4
3
2
1
6.I believe that the harder I fall, the higher I’ll
bounce.
4
3
2
1
7.With every passing year, I see more things that I
can achieve.
4
3
2
1
8.When I’m lost, I ask for directions.
4
3
2
1
9.When I’m involved with a group or activity, I
often end up in charge.
4
3
2
1
10.I’m a persistent person who will stick with
something until I make it work.
4
3
2
1
11.When I’m proven wrong, I try to figure out what I
can learn from it.
4
3
2
1
12.I’m very comfortable thinking on my feet.
4
3
2
1
13.Instead of complaining about problems, I suggest a
better approach.
4
3
2
1
14.Friends and coworkers often seek me out for
advice.
4
3
2
1
15.If I'm not passionate about my work, then I change
my work.
4
3
2
1
16.I believe that I can fulfill my dreams.
Total Points:
TOTAL POINTS
Although this is not
a validated test, it may be a general indicator of your comfort with
self-employment.
16
32
48 64
A paycheck is a beautiful
thing. You might find it hard to live without one.
You may be tempted to quit
your day job. Just proceed with caution.
You have an entrepreneurial
spirit. But remember that’s not all you need.
* Adapted from “Are
You a Biz Whiz?”, AARP Magazine, 2008
Phone
Coaching
Dr. Marie McIntyre
can help with career issues, conflicts, boss problems, or job search
questions. Phone
coaching sessions can be scheduled at your convenience. The cost is
$49 per half hour. If you would like to schedule a phone coaching
session, just
send us an email.
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