10 attributes to put you in the right mindset

1. Set an example of trustworthiness. People have confidence in people they trust and want to work for them. The same is true for customers.

2. Be flexible, except with core values. No matter the pressure for immediate profits, do not compromise on core values.

3. Don't let fear of failure hold you back. Failure is an opportunity to learn.

4. Make timely decisions. Use your intuition. Planning and thought are good. But procrastination leads to missed opportunity.

5. The major company asset is you. Take care of yourself. Your health is more valuable than the most expensive machinery or computer software for the company. Maintain your health for balance and energy.

6. Master your ego. Don't take profits and spend them on expensive toys to impress others. Build a war chest for unexpected needs or opportunities.

7. Believe.You need to believe in yourself, in your company, and that you will be successful.

8. Encourage and accept criticism graciously. Admit your mistakes.
You need to constantly work on convincing your employees that it's okay--even necessary--to state their honest opinions even it if conflicts with the boss's opinion. Your employees will follow your lead.

9. Rebound quickly from setbacks. There surely will be plenty of ups and downs as you build the business. Learn from the setbacks and move on. You can't change the past.

10. Periodically get out of your comfort zone to pursue something important. Many times you will feel uncomfortable in implementing a needed change in technology, people, mission, competing, etc. For the company and you to grow personally, you sometimes have to step out of your comfort zone.

Credit: Bob Reiss.