Nature vs Nurture

Are entrepreneurs born or made? Does it have anything to do with genes or is it the environment you grow up in?

A popular belief is that entrepreneurs are born creative and destined to become successful. I don't think its quite that simple. It all goes back to the nature versus nurture argument, but I believe both genetics and your environment play a role in becoming an entrepreneur. Research by the University of Minnesota has highlighted the significance of genes on our personality and traits. They study identical twins who have been separated at birth. This allows them to observe how different environments and cultures account for differences in behavior. Their research has shown that identical twins who have been separated still have similar personalities. Although they have proved genetics play into someones characteristics, they have pointed out that environment does account for the variation in personalities.

While being creative is a must for entrepreneurship, many other characteristics can be learned or improved through experiences and school. I don't think entrepreneurs are some special breed of humans, they're just individuals passionate about their ideas and improving the world. If you are considering becoming an entrepreneur then take a look at 8 tips from Tamara Monosoff (2010):

1. Take a stand for yourself
2. Identify the right business for you
3. Make a business plan
4. Know your target audience
5. Build a support network
6. What kind of money/fundraising will you need
7. Know what value your product offers
8. Get the word out

In addition to my blog post, I would like to promote an interesting blog by a classmate of mine. Joe writes about music and his latest post covers the invention of headphones. It goes into detail about the components of headphones and their importance. If you're a big music fan or want to learn more about the industry visit his blog.

References 

Monosoff, T. (2010, July 19). So You Want to Be Your Own Boss... Retrieved April 03, 2017, from https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/207488

Lewis, T. (2014, August 11). Twins Separated at Birth Reveal Staggering Influence of Genetics. Retrieved April 03, 2017, from http://www.livescience.com/47288-twin-study-importance-of-genetics.html