An entrepreneur is someone who makes any attempt at a new business venture. Entrepreneurship is a major contributing factor to the economic well-being of a country both in terms of economic growth and job creation.

According to Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, one in 10 adults in the United States today is an entrepreneur. This massive growth is by no means restricted to North America. The leading country for entrepreneurship is Brazil with one in eight adults an entrepreneur. Australia is not far behind the U.S. with one in 12. Many other countries are rapidly gaining ground.

Wanting to be an entrepreneur is one thing, being one is quite another. Entrepreneurs take on responsibilities and commitments much differently than those of an employee or small business owner. Unless you’re prepared mentally and emotionally, it can be overwhelming.

Empowered Entrepreneurs are lifelong learners. They continually seek information, new ideas and sound advice. They know how to make the most of every business opportunity. They plan, strategize, measure results and continually re-adjust their business model. They take calculated risks and learn from failed ideas.

Once someone masters an entrepreneurial mindset, business growth expands rapidly. These are the same people who can create a big vision for their business by becoming obsessed at achieving results.