Studies indicate that entrepreneurs are born, not made. As a serial entrepreneur, having worked with dozens of successful entrepreneurs, I can confirm that this is a truism. No two are exactly alike, but they are different from those who fail, or worse, never try.

I am often asked what makes an entrepreneur. In answering, I use the quote from Supreme Court Justice Harlan when asked how he defined pornography. “I know it when I see it.” Entrepreneurs have behavior that separates them from the pack. They are different. Ready to take risks, fearless, passionate, problem solvers, positive and focused – Entrepreneurs are the power that runs the engine of any capitalist economy.

I’ve put together 10 traits that all successful entrepreneurs seem to pick up over the course of a lifetime. Some are stronger in one area or another, but the basics are covered here and represent qualities and beliefs that are remarkably consistent in successful entrepreneurs.

10 essential traits for the successful entrepreneur

#1 Passion in your project opportunity

Passion overcomes many deficiencies in experience and/or education. True passion cannot be faked and is contagious!

#2 Courage when in doubt

Every entrepreneur experiences hints of worry and doubt. The ability to overcome, move on and achieve your goals requires courage.

#3 The ability to handle rejection

Success as an entrepreneur requires a tough skin. You will receive criticism and hear the word NO much more often than the word YES.

#4 The ability to remain open to change

Hardened attitudes and dispositions will cut off the ability to innovate, improve and add creativity to an invention or new idea.

#5 The glass is always much more than half full

Successful entrepreneurs know that they have obstacles to overcome. They just keep going. Negatives are like mosquitoes, which have to be shaken off.

#6 Small ideas become big ideas

Coca-Cola was not created with the goal of being a mass-market drink. A pharmacist created the formula for his soda fountain as a tonic.

#7 Only you can shape your life

You control all aspects of your life. When you look in the mirror, do you see a man or a mouse? The answer is totally a reflection of you.

#8 Repent only of what you have not done

Dying and having wishes or nightmares about missed opportunities, or never getting into the game, is kind of a sin. What a waste!

#9 Get rich slowly

Dreamers want to get rich quick and rarely do. Hard work, enterprise, innovation and focus make the hare the winner over the flashier rabbit.

#10 Listen to learn

While you speak you cannot be learning. Ask questions, probe, probe! Listening is crucial to overcoming objections and success.