Sunday, November 3, 2024
HomeFor: EducatorsBorn to Be an Entrepreneur: Debunking Myths...

Born to Be an Entrepreneur: Debunking Myths and Unveiling the Truth

The idea that all individuals are born entrepreneurs but society strips them of this innate ability is a concept that has generated substantial debate among leading entrepreneurship academics. While some argue that entrepreneurship is a natural inclination that can be nurtured, others believe that it is a learned skill that requires specific training and resources.

In this blog post, we will delve into the opinions of prominent entrepreneurship academics and explore the factors that shape an individual’s entrepreneurial potential.

Opinions Formed by Leading Entrepreneurship Academics:

  1. James Donald, Executive Director, E³-DBE (DBE’s Programme for Entrepreneurship, Employability & Education):
    The insights shared by James shed light on the debate surrounding whether all people are born entrepreneurs. Drawing upon research findings from DBE-E³, it becomes clear that while some individuals may possess innate entrepreneurial qualities, entrepreneurship is ultimately a combination of inherent traits and learned skills. Nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship through education and exposure to entrepreneurial experiences is crucial for unlocking the potential within each individual. By acknowledging this holistic perspective, societies can foster an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive.

2. Dr. Bill Aulet, Managing Director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship:
According to Dr. Aulet, “All people are born entrepreneurs, and it is then society that slowly dilutes this and even threatens to take it away.” He believes that from the beginning of human history, people have been driven to create, trade, and provide services to survive. An entrepreneurship educator’s role, in his view, is to revive and sharpen these innate entrepreneurial skills through effective teaching methods.

    In his opinion, success as an entrepreneur cannot be guaranteed by following a set formula, as it involves creating something new and unique. However, there are fundamental principles that can greatly enhance the chances of success. These principles, known as the 4H’s, focus on the heart, head, hand, and home of an entrepreneur.

    Starting with the heart, entrepreneurs must have the passion and drive to make a positive impact on the world. Moving on to the head, they need to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve their goals. The hand represents the practical application of this knowledge, turning theory into action. Finally, the home aspect emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community to access resources and increase the likelihood of success. By understanding and embodying these principles, aspiring entrepreneurs can pave the way for a successful journey in the world of business.
    Source: Interview with Dr. Bill Aulet

    3. Dr. Linda Edelman, Professor of Entrepreneurship at Bentley University:
    Dr. Edelman presents a nuanced perspective, asserting, “While people may be born with certain traits or tendencies that are conducive to entrepreneurship, the development of entrepreneurial skills and mindset is heavily influenced by societal and environmental factors.” She emphasizes the interplay between nature and nurture, suggesting that while some individuals may have an initial inclination towards entrepreneurship, the realisation of this potential is significantly shaped by external influences.

      4. Dr. Saras Sarasvathy, Isidore Horween Research Associate Professor of Business Administration at Darden School of Business, University of Virginia:
      Dr. Sarasvathy emphasises the role of individual agency, stating, “Entrepreneurship is about agency, not birthright.” She argues that the capacity for entrepreneurial thinking and action is not universally innate, but instead cultivated through deliberate learning and experiences. According to her perspective, society can indeed foster or inhibit entrepreneurial behaviours, but the potential for entrepreneurship is not inherently present in all individuals.
      Source: Effectuation: Elements of Entrepreneurial Expertise

        Conclusion:
        While opinions may differ among leading entrepreneurship academics, there is a consensus that all individuals possess entrepreneurial potential. However, the extent to which society nurtures or stifles this potential remains a matter of contention.
        It is evident that effective entrepreneurship education, coupled with a supportive environment that encourages problem-solving and creative thinking, can help individuals tap into their innate entrepreneurial abilities.
        By addressing the shortcomings in current educational systems and embracing a culture that values and promotes entrepreneurship, society can empower individuals to unleash their full entrepreneurial potential.

        Lynn Brown
        Lynn Brown
        Lynn is a content marketer that focuses on brand storytelling through digital platforms. Skilled in a background of web development, search engine optimization and content production, Lynn is excited to utilize over 10 years’ experience in digital marketing to help grow the ecosystems that support Africa’s very young entrepreneurs to ensure their success.

        Resources to Download

        Newest Resources

        Subscribe to our newsletter

        To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

        Stay Connected

        LinkedIn

        Twitter

        Youtube

        Facebook

        Latest Articles

        JOIN THE ANZISHA MOVEMENT

        Get instant access to a library of resources that can help you and any young entrepreneur you know build their own enterprise!