Here’s a test to help identify “wantrepreneur” tendencies. It’s important to remember that it’s not a perfect diagnostic tool, but it can provide valuable insights:

The Wantrepreneur Test

Instructions: Answer each question as honestly as possible, choosing the option that best describes you.

Questions:

Your approach to ideas:

• • A. I have lots of exciting ideas, and I am always thinking of the next big thing.
  • B. I have a few core ideas I’m passionate about and am focused on.
  • C. I’m good at finding ideas others have started and improving on them.

When facing a challenge, you:

• • A. Pivot quickly to a new idea with less resistance.
  • B. Persevere, strategizing and finding solutions to overcome.
  • C. Get discouraged and start to doubt your idea’s value.

Your time management:

• A. I spend more time talking about my ideas than working on them.
• B. I dedicate consistent, focused time to building my business.
• C. I work in bursts of motivation but find other things filling my time.

Your view of risk:

• • A. I’m terrified of failure and will only act if success is guaranteed.
  • B. I understand risk is part of the process and take calculated steps.
  • C. I dream big but rarely take the first risky step toward action.

Your focus on money:

• • A. I’m obsessed with the potential for wealth and status.
  • B. Financial success is important, but the passion for my work is primary.
  • C. I worry about the financial investment and how long it will take to profit.

Scoring:

• Mostly A’s: You likely have wantrepreneur tendencies. There’s excitement but a lack of follow-through
• Mostly B’s: You demonstrate strong entrepreneurial characteristics.
• Mostly C’s: You’re somewhere in the middle, perhaps lacking the confidence or commitment to move forward

Interpreting Your Results

• Wantrepreneur Tendencies: The excitement of entrepreneurship is appealing, but you may find yourself jumping from idea to idea without focusing on execution. Success requires more than just enthusiasm.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: You have the drive, focus, and willingness to push through difficulties. These are vital traits for a successful entrepreneur.
• Unsure Footing: It’s okay to be uncertain and have some fear when starting. Consider working on developing your risk tolerance and ability to execute your ideas.

Beyond the Test

This is just a starting point! Other key differences between wantrepreneurs and entrepreneurs include:

• Market Validation: Entrepreneurs research their market, while wantrepreneurs often fall in love with their own idea without testing its viability.
• Networking: Entrepreneurs actively build relationships and seek mentorship; wantrepreneurs may work in isolation.
• Learning Mindset: Entrepreneurs are constantly learning and adapting; wantrepreneurs might stick rigidly to their initial ideas.

Important Note: Even if you display wantrepreneur tendencies, it doesn’t mean you can’t become a successful entrepreneur! Self-awareness is a strength. Focus on developing the skills you need and start taking steps to make your business dreams a reality.