You can be successful even if you don’t possess every skill needed to run a business. However, there are certain qualities you should possess if you are to be successful:

Willingness to Sacrifice
If you like working 9 to 5, taking three week vacations every year and enjoy lots of free time, don’t go into business for yourself. Starting a new business can deplete a lot of time, energy and money, especially in the early years. You must be willing to pay the price of success. Are you prepared to pay the price?

Interpersonal Skills
As an entrepreneur, you have to be a good relationship manager. You must be able to maintain cordial relationships with everyone who touches your business. If you thought getting along with your boss was tough, wait until you have to deal with suppliers, customers, lawyers, accountants, salespeople, government officials and everyone else who wants a piece of your success. You may have to spend a lot of time with people you don’t like.

Organizational Skills
Successful owners keep track of everything happening in their business, set priorities and get things done. They know if they lose track of what’s going on, they’re sunk. Even if you have to hire someone to come to your office one hour per week to keep you organized, it would be well worth it.

Leadership Ability
Successful entrepreneurs understand that others are looking for them to provide answers, guidance and to make hard decisions. If you are not ready for that responsibility, you shouldn’t own a business.

Intelligence
We are not talking about the ability to do well on SAT scores. We’re talking about common sense and street smarts. Entrepreneurs anticipate problems and take preemptive steps to avoid them.

Business Experience
Your banker will want you to have some solid business experience in the same field of your current endeavor. If you lack experience, go get it anyway that you can. For example, volunteer at an existing business or get a part-time job in the field.