Having a startup mentality ever since the beginning of college, I was always on the lookout for some interesting opportunities to get a taste of the startup life. Early on in the school days after high school, I started with online blogging to provide a platform for budding college entrepreneurs to be showcased, to discuss and learn from each other. It’s been 7 years now that I have been associated with online firms and hoping to build it into something big!
Here are some of the things I learnt along the way:
Perseverance
One of the most important traits of any entrepreneur. You know that your idea is right, has market for it but you need to work hard to make it work. It’s important to remember that all the success stories you hear have a background of pure hard work. In-fact, remember that every idea isn’t the next big thing, but you can sure make it big with the amount of work you put in.
Time Management is the Key
A student entrepreneur has a lot on his or her mind. You always have a constant stream of classwork, assignments, exams, meetings, work projects, social occasions that keep you busy throughout. It is important to manage all these and still come out on top. Those who manage to do so, can see your business soaring in a few years time.
Build a Strong Team
When you have lot of things going on in life, it is easy to get distracted and motivation levels drop. In such cases it always proves to be helpful if you have the backing of a team that believes in you and that believes in your idea. A good team consists of people who compliment each other and add to the capabilities of your work.
Build Your Network
I’ve heard this from many professionals that college is the best time to network. You are placed in an environment where everyone has varied interests and liking. You never know where all these people might be 5 years down the line and who or what might prove useful to you. But also remember its a give and take relationship, so if you are in a position to help, go out of way to help people, they will always be grateful for that and you end up building a strong relationship.
Enjoy Life
These years aren’t going to be there for a long time. College comes just once in your life, so take time out and enjoy. Some of the best startups were born during discussions with friends over coffee! Take pride in what you do, give back to the society and work hard but remember to party harder!
The only way to do great work is to love what you do.
If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.
Like all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you’ve found it.
