R346 - The 6 Traits of Entrepreneurs

R346 - The 6 Traits of Entrepreneurs

Author: Henry Lopez July 13, 2026 Duration: 20:41

Do you possess the innate characteristics, the 6 essential traits, required to become a true entrepreneur?

Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/r346-6-traits-of-entrepreneurs/

How to honestly assess whether you possess the 6 essential traits required to become a true entrepreneur.

Henry explains the critical difference between being self-employed or a small business owner and being a true entrepreneur, and why not everyone is wired to build an organization that grows beyond themselves.

He shares the six essential traits that, according to Gino Wickman, and based on Henry's own decades of entrepreneurial experience and coaching, are innate characteristics required for entrepreneurial success.

If you're considering starting a business, or wondering whether entrepreneurship is truly the right path for you, this episode will help you honestly assess yourself before making the leap.

The 6 Traits of Entrepreneurs:

  1. Visionary
  2. Passionate
  3. Problem Solver
  4. Driven
  5. Risk Taker
  6. Responsible (Blames No One)

Key Takeaways from this episode:
The difference between self-employment and entrepreneurship.
Why entrepreneurial success requires more than a great idea.
The six essential entrepreneurial traits of entrepreneurs.
Why these traits are considered innate and not learned.
How honest self-assessment can save years of frustration.
Why entrepreneurship isn't the right path for everyone, and that's okay!

This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website https://TheHowOfBusiness.com


Henry Lopez hosts The How of Business-How to start, run, grow and exit a small business. It’s a practical resource for anyone who wants to move beyond just the idea of entrepreneurship and into the actual work of building something. Each week, the focus is on the tangible steps and decisions involved in a business’s entire lifecycle, from that initial launch through to managing daily operations, scaling up, and even planning a future exit. You’ll hear straightforward conversations that dig into specific topics, breaking down complex challenges into manageable advice. Often, Henry sits down with a small business owner who shares their real-world experiences-the successes and the setbacks-offering a genuine look at what it takes. This podcast is built on the understanding that running a business is a series of learned skills, and it aims to provide those lessons without fluff. Whether you're sketching your first plan on a napkin or steering an established company toward growth, the discussions here are meant to be directly applicable to your own journey. Tune in for a regular dose of clarity and concrete strategies from someone who understands the day-to-day realities you face.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The How of Business - How to start, run, grow and exit a small business.
Podcast Episodes
R361 – Start and Grow Without Investors with Tyler King [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:44
How to start and grow a small business without investors. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/r361-tyler-king-without-investors/ Bootstrapping a software business without venture capital or angel investors…
619 – Presentations That Close Deals with Dean Curtis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:27
Increase Close Rates with consistent, professional in-home sales presentations for home improvement and home services businesses, and Dean Curtis of Ingage shares the principles and tools that help small operators win mo…
618 - Buyer Due Diligence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:34
Buying a Business? Do Your Due Diligence! Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/618-buyer-due-diligence/ Buyer due diligence is your primary protection when purchasing a small business, and on this episode He…
617 - Remote, Hybrid, or In-Office? with Claudia St. John [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:49
Deciding between remote, hybrid, and in-office work is one of the toughest calls small business owners face today, and HR expert Claudia St. John shares how to choose the model that fits your team while staying legally c…
616 - Parkinson's Law for Small Business [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:28
Why work expands to fill the time available, and how small business owners can use deadlines, time blocking, and clear outcomes to get more done in less time. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/616-parkins…
615 - AI and Cybersecurity for Small Business with Mordy Hackel [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:33
Technology expert explains how small business owners can leverage AI as a force multiplier while protecting their data, systems, and intellectual property from emerging cybersecurity risks. Show Notes Page: https://www.t…
614 - Growing a Family Business with Kaiden Routh [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:34
How he earned his way into leadership, developed a capable management team, and transformed a hands-on family equipment dealership into a scalable business that no longer depends on him for every decision. Show Notes Pag…
613 - Conflict Resolution Principles with Jeremy Pollack [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:03
How understanding the neuroscience behind conflict can help small business owners become more effective leaders, build healthier teams, and transform workplace conflict into collaboration. Show Notes Page: https://www.th…
612 - What a Waymo Ride Taught Us About Innovation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:46
A Waymo driverless vehicle ride sparks a discussion about AI, innovation, technology adoption, and why small business owners can't afford to wait for perfection before embracing emerging technologies like AI. Show Notes…
611 - From Psychiatrist to Practice Owner with Dr. Duncan Gill [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:46
How psychiatrist Dr. Duncan Gill transitioned from employee to entrepreneur and built a thriving behavioral health practice serving children, teens, and families. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/611-dun…