Australia's online magazine for entrepreneurs & SMEs

Skills check – emotional stamina

Last Updated: Friday, 9 May 2008

By Colin Benjamin and Amanda Gome

Do I have the emotional stamina to take the business to the next level in a downturn?

Take the Skills Check, score your responses, and see if your capabilities add up. Answer our 10 questions (where a ranking of three means you strongly agree) and see how you rate.

I have loads of energy and can work long hours when I need to.

I enjoy exercise, don’t drink (too much) and focus on good health, even when I am busy.

I can pace myself to last the distance.

I see the big picture and can keep my spirits up even when external shocks batter the company.

I get a thrill out of creating jobs and watching the company grow.

I do not let perfectionism tie me up in knots.

I can sleep at night through times of intense pressure.

I use positive self talk to get through difficult times.

I take calculated risks where other people falter.

I recover from setbacks and see them as a learning opportunity.

How did you rate?

• 10-15 Forget it. Go and get a job.
• 16-25 Off to a business coach or mentor group for you. You need to work on your entrepreneurial stamina.
• 26-30 You have got it! But then you know that.