What is an entrepreneur? : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

It is extremely difficult to define exactly what an entrepreneur is. Many people assume that it is just someone who opens their own business. This is an extremely simple definition. Although partially correct, there is much more to being an entrepreneur. Throughout the course of this thesis, there will not only be an emergence of a better definition for entrepreneur. Rather, it will be a closer look into the mind of an entrepreneur and how they perceive themselves.In order to receive a better understanding of an entrepreneur, it will be necessary to dig deeper than the simple characteristics that most share. In the pages to come, the information provided should dispel many myths about entrepreneurs. This can help enlighten numerous people by correcting many of their preconceived notions. The discussion of the concepts of motivation will help demonstrate the drive that most entrepreneurs possess.It will be important to receive a better understanding of entrepreneurs by also examining portions of the darker side. An example of this difficult side involves all of the many risks that are unilateral with opening a business. Entrepreneurial stresses such as loneliness and immersion in business help to enlighten any uniformed reader.The thesis will conclude with an examination of how entrepreneurs are different from other managers. This comparison helps distinguish career professionals from entrepreneurs. By the end, any reader should be able to understand that entrepreneur is not just a job title, but also a way of life.Honors CollegeThesis (B.S.