Be Your Own Entrepreneurial Role Model!

If you’ve ever felt like there’s no one quite like you in the business world, maybe it’s time to create your own path and be your own role model. As a young entrepreneur, you don’t need to wait for someone else to look up to; you already have what it takes to inspire yourself. 

In this guide, you’ll find simple, powerful tips to help you find your strengths, take big steps, and start your own business journey.

Own What Makes You Different

You have skills and hobbies that make you unique. Think about your passions and write them down. Maybe you love learning about mental health and drawing art. You could use these interests to start a YouTube channel about mental health tips for teens, featuring your own artwork to explain different topics.

Show off your personality, knowledge, and passion in whatever business you choose. Make it your own—how you talk, share ideas, and design your brand. Adding these personal touches can make your business memorable.

Set Your Standards and Values—You’re the Boss!

Your business shows who you are and what’s important to you. Building it on values that matter to you makes it real and trustworthy. Ask yourself:

• What am I like in daily life?
• What do I value about myself and others?

Think about values like:

• Honesty
• Creativity
• Helping people

How can these values show up in your business? For example, if you have a one-on-one math tutoring company and need to reschedule, be honest with your client and help them however you can—maybe give a discount on the next session. Your values shape your business, and you can continue to inspire yourself through honest, transparent decisions.

Level Up Your Skills and Knowledge

Your personality and values are part of your business, but you also need knowledge to offer great products or services. In fact, serial entrepreneur Victor Green says you need “solid, innovative” ideas to handle setbacks and succeed in business. Key skills like time management and leadership can help you create the best offers.

To get better at these skills, try setting small goals, like organizing your social media posts or practicing public speaking. You can learn pretty much anything online—try YouTube, podcasts, or free online courses. Talking to people you know, like family members or teachers who are good at these skills, can also help you build the abilities you need for success.

Boost Your Confidence

Build your confidence by celebrating small and big wins. Taking action—like finishing a project or starting a school club—can leave you feeling proud about yourself.

One way to start feeling good about yourself is to try something new today. For example, you could create a pop-up bake sale to make extra money. This experience can teach you how to earn, budget, and manage money. Every small step helps you believe in yourself more!

Make a Game Plan

Looking back at what you’ve accomplished can make you feel proud. Now, try looking forward and think about where you see yourself in a few years. Maybe your dream is to start a streetwear brand and have a store in your favorite part of the city.

To make it happen, split your big goals into smaller steps, like designing your first t-shirt and setting up an online store to sell it. Creating a business plan with weekly or monthly goals keeps you motivated, and each step gets you closer to becoming your own role model.

Check in with Yourself to Keep Growing

Role models never stop learning. You have to keep thinking about your goals and progress, always looking to grow. This doesn’t mean everything will go perfectly—it means learning from mistakes and looking ahead. Here are some easy ways to reflect:

• Daily Journaling: Write about your feelings and things you’re grateful for.
• Weekly Check-Ins: Chat with a trusted family member or friend to stay on track with new skills or goals.
• Lessons Learned: After each project, note what worked, what didn’t, and any lessons you discovered.

Self-reflection helps you grow and inspires confidence.

Be the Role Model You Wish You Had

You have the skills, determination, and commitment to inspire yourself and create your own path in entrepreneurship. Keep challenging yourself, believe in your abilities, and keep learning to improve your skills.

By doing this, you’re not just becoming your own role model—you’re also setting an example for others to look up to.

Could you be one of the next Kantner Foundation scholarship winners? Learn more about our college scholarships for young entrepreneurs here!