There's a specific question I often ask myself that I know can't be answered with

any level of certainty, but fascinates me nonetheless. The question is: How many
life-changing ideas are sitting in the minds of would-be entrepreneurs who don't
feel worthy or ready to make the jump?

Unfortunately, we don't get to see those great ideas come to life because there's
so much self-doubt and fear in our society, which holds us back from taking chances
on our dreams. We all know the negative self-talk that keeps us down. Here are a
few big ones:

I am not smart enough.

I don't know how to start a business?
I don't have enough money.
I don't know how to get customers.
What if I fail...and my family or friends know I failed?
Life is too short to sit at your job wondering if you have what it takes to start
the business or organization you've always wanted. If you have an idea, or a
passion, and you're not sure if you're ready to go for it, this list of
affirmations will help confirm what you already know deep down inside: you are
ready to be an entrepreneur.

1. You can't get the idea out of your head

You see a problem and know that your idea is the solution. You've shared your idea
with friends and keep telling yourself that you're waiting for the right time.
Here's the paradox: there's never a good time. Just go for it.

2. You care more about customer happiness than profits

You understand that customers are the lifeblood of any business. And when there's a
conflict between doing what's best for the customer, or making the most money, you
always side with the customer. The best business put the customer first.

3. You're unfulfilled
There comes a time in your life when you need to ask if you like what you do every
day. If the answer is no, or you hesitate, then it's time to reflect on what will
make you happy. There's a good chance that your idea will bring you much more
personal fulfillment.

4. You can't stand how your current company is run

This kind of thinking proves that you see how companies should function. What's
more, you have ideas for what could be done to address and solve the problems.
That's what great CEO's do.

5. You work harder than your boss or CEO

This behavior shows an ownership mentality that is necessary for success. You are
committed to executing, even if it means working late or doing things yourself.
That's exactly what being an entrepreneur is all about.

6. Your side-hustle can't get any bigger

You've been working your job by day and building your side business by night. Now
your side business is set to take off, and if you don't work full time, you'll be
holding yourself back. What other signs are you looking for? Jump already!

7. There's nothing left to learn

You're an all-star at your job and rose through the ranks. Now you feel like
there's no more room to grow, or things to learn. If this is you, realize that
you've crushed it, and you're ready for your next challenge.

8. Your favorite show is Shark Tank

You could be watching reality TV, but instead, you're watching the most exciting
and intense moments in business: fundraising. If you can't miss an episode, and you
keep thinking "if I could just show them my idea...," that's a sign you're ready to
get in front of the sharks yourself.

9. You ask "what if" all the time

If you ask "what if," and you think of the great things that could happen with your
idea, you're ready. Follow your intuition. If you feel good, it means you're
aligned with a sense of purpose.

10. All your peers are B-players

When you can see that you're separated from the pack, it's time to realize that you
have something special. You're an A-player and you're ready to go off on your own.

Final Word
Any entrepreneur who says they didn't doubt themselves at least once is lying. The
doubt you might experience is natural. The key is to realize that your fears are
untrue thoughts you learned from society, your family or a sense of insecurity.
Work on letting them go. Then focus on what you want to create. Embrace the signs
that prove you have what it takes to create the life you want.