In the wild world of entrepreneurship, success is often chalked up to a magical mix of skills, strategies, and sheer luck.
But after years of working with thousands of founders in the trenches, we've noticed a pattern.
There's a certain type of personality that seems to thrive in the entrepreneurial arena.
Specific traits attract individuals to entrepreneurship in the first place, and then some traits separate the wannabes from the real deal.
Because let's face it, most entrepreneurs never make it to the big leagues. They either burn out, fade away, or just plain give up.
So what is it that sets the elite few apart?
What's the secret sauce that allows some entrepreneurs to keep pushing forward, even in the face of brutal obstacles and setbacks?
The answer lies in a little something called the Big Five personality framework. And no, this isn't some fluffy, feel-good nonsense.
The Big Five has been put through scientific scrutiny for decades, and it's come out the other side as an evidence-based method to understand the human personality.
In this guide, we'll explore how specific traits drive entrepreneurial behaviors and outcomes, and uncover what separates the top performers from the rest of the pack.
What is the Entrepreneur Personality Type?
Forget everything you think you know about personality types.
We're not here to put you in a box or slap a label on your forehead. We're here to uncover the science behind what makes entrepreneurs tick.
The key lies in the Big Five personality traits, also known as the OCEAN model.
When it comes to decoding the building blocks of human personality, the Big Five is the gold standard.
And guess what? It holds up.
According to research, the following five traits pretty much sum up the core of human personality:
Openness to Experience
Conscientiousness
Extraversion
Agreeableness
Neuroticism
Now, while every successful entrepreneur is unique, some common threads run through the entrepreneurial personality type.
Let's break it down:
1. Openness to Experience
Entrepreneurs are the explorers. They're insatiably curious, wildly creative, and always chasing the next big idea. They're the ones who look at the world and see not what is, but what could be.
Openness to experience is like rocket fuel for entrepreneurial vision.
It's a visionary and a dreamer trait.
It's what allows founders to connect dots no one else sees and dream up game-changing innovations. If you're an entrepreneur, chances are you've got openness in spades.
2. Conscientiousness on Steroids
Conscientiousness is the workhorse of the entrepreneurial personality. It's the trait that allows founders to delay gratification, stay focused, and power through challenges that would make most people throw in the towel.
It’s the opposite of hedonists.
In other words, conscientiousness is grit. It's discipline.
It's the ability to keep pushing forward, even when the path is steep and rocky. And for entrepreneurs, it's non-negotiable.
3. Disagreeableness
Here's where it gets interesting.
While agreeableness is generally considered a positive trait, a little bit of disagreeableness can be a major asset for entrepreneurs.
Why?
Because entrepreneurs are the rebels, the mavericks. They look at the way things are and say, "To hell with that" or “Let’s make this better.”
They're not afraid to ruffle feathers, challenge authority, and carve new paths.
In short, they get things done.
Interestingly, in America, immigrants are more likely to become entrepreneurs, possibly because many are not recognized by traditional institutions. This outsider status fuels their drive to challenge the status quo, and hunger to create their own opportunities.
And that's exactly the kind of disagreeableness that can lead to game-changing innovations and businesses.
4. Extraversion (or Lack Thereof)
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be an extrovert to be a successful entrepreneur. Some of the most iconic founders like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg are notorious introverts.
You just need to know how to leverage your natural strengths.
Extraverted entrepreneurs may excel at networking, sales, and leadership, while introverted founders often shine in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and focused execution.
5. Managed Neuroticism
Let's face it - entrepreneurship is a roller coaster. The highs are high, but the lows can be gut-wrenching.
That's where emotional stability comes in. And neuroticism is the opposite of emotional stability.
Entrepreneurs need to be able to keep a cool head under pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain a healthy perspective. A little bit of neuroticism can fuel achievement, but too much can be crippling.
The key is balance.
Successful entrepreneurs know how to harness their drive and ambition while also prioritizing self-care and mental well-being.
Core Drivers of the Entrepreneurial Psyche
Alright, so we've covered the basics of the Big Five personality traits. But how do these traits translate into entrepreneurial success?
What are the core drivers that separate the dreamers from the doers?
Here’s what propels entrepreneurs to the top:
1. Vision
First up, we've got vision.
We're not talking about some vague, wishy-washy "dream big" nonsense. We're talking about the kind of vision that borders on obsession.
Entrepreneurs with openness to experience have an innate sense of spotting opportunities that others miss. They're constantly connecting the dots, blending insights, and envisioning game-changing possibilities.
It's like they have a direct line to the future.
Just look at Steve Jobs.
The guy was a master at seeing the potential in seemingly unrelated fields and combining them in groundbreaking ways. He famously took calligraphy classes in college, which later inspired the iconic typography of Apple products.
That's the power of vision.
2. Persistence
Next up, we've got persistence.
When we say persistence, we don’t just mean hard work. But also having the mental toughness to keep pushing forward in the face of setbacks and disappointments.
At the heart of persistence lies conscientiousness. It's the slow-burning fuel that keeps them moving forward, inch by grueling inch.
This trait is like a muscle - the more you flex it, the stronger it gets.
That's why so many successful entrepreneurs have a background in elite sports, military service, or other high-pressure environments.
They've trained themselves to be unstoppable.
People who are high in conscientiousness tend to learn more than the rest of the population.
3. Innovativeness
Innovation is the name of the game in entrepreneurship.
But it's not just about having cool ideas - it's about having the discipline to bring those ideas to life.
That's where the one-two punch of openness and conscientiousness comes in.
Openness generates novel ideas, while conscientiousness provides the focus and follow-through to turn those ideas into reality.
It's a rare and powerful combination.
4. Optimism
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. It's a roller coaster ride of highs and lows, victories and setbacks.
And the only way to survive is with a hefty dose of optimism.
But we're not talking about blind, naive positivity here. We're talking about the kind of deep, unshakable belief that comes from knowing that success is inevitable if you just keep pushing forward.
It's the emotional fuel that keeps entrepreneurs going when the going gets tough. And it's a non-negotiable trait for anyone who wants to make it in this game.
5. Calculated Risk-Taking
Contrary to popular belief, successful entrepreneurs aren't reckless gamblers.
They're calculated risk-takers who know how to play the odds in their favor.
Openness allows them to spot opportunities that others miss, while conscientiousness ensures that they've done their due diligence before leaping.
And a healthy dose of disagreeableness gives them the audacity to buck trends and carve their path.
The best entrepreneurs have a clear, well-thought-out path forward and the discipline to follow it. It's not about impulsive risk-taking. Rather, it’s about strategically playing the odds based on a thorough understanding of the landscape.
It's like playing poker with a stacked deck.
The best entrepreneurs know when to go all in and when to fold. And they're not afraid to make bold moves when the time is right
6. Achievement
Entrepreneurs are a different breed when it comes to achievement. They're not content with just being good - they want to be the best.
This drive is born from a potent mix of openness (always seeking new challenges and growth) and conscientiousness (putting in the hard work to make it happen).
It's an intoxicating combo that can lead to mind-blowing accomplishments.
But it's also a double-edged sword.
Entrepreneurs need to be mindful of the risk of burnout that comes with drive.
Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint.
So, if you want to be in the top 0.1% of successful entrepreneurs, you have to embrace a drive that 99% of people would find uncomfortable.
It's a simple truth, but a powerful one.
Weaknesses of the Entrepreneur Personality Type
We've covered the superpowers that come with the entrepreneurial personality type. But let's be real - every superhero has their kryptonite. And entrepreneurs are no exception.
The same traits that propel founders to greatness can also be their downfall if left unchecked.
So let's dive into the dark side of the entrepreneurial psyche and how to navigate it:
1. Isolation and Loneliness
Entrepreneurs are the ultimate lone wolves.
They're the ones who look at the way things are and say, "damn that noise, I'm doing it my way."
And while that independent streak is what allows them to blaze new trails, it can also leave them feeling isolated.
When you're busy rejecting the status quo and building your empire, it's easy to forget the importance of human connection.
But here's the thing: no one makes it to the top alone.
Entrepreneurs need to be proactive about building a strong support network of mentors, peers, and coaches, like Commit Action, who get the unique challenges of the journey.
Surrounding yourself with people who've been there, and done that is crucial for both your emotional well-being and your continued growth.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road.
And having a few fellow travelers to swap stories and strategies with can make all the difference.
2. Work-Life Imbalance
Conscientiousness is the engine that drives entrepreneurial success.
It's what allows founders to put in the long hours and late nights, to keep pushing forward even when the going gets tough.
But when unchecked, it can also be a one-way ticket to Burnoutville.
Entrepreneurs are notorious for neglecting their health, relationships, and leisure activities in the name of the hustle.
But for how long can you pour from an empty cup/kettle?
Neglecting your well-being is a surefire recipe for disaster, both personally and professionally.
The key is to channel that conscientiousness into building healthy habits and boundaries.
Prioritize sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Set aside non-negotiable time for loved ones and hobbies.
And for the love of God, learn to unplug and recharge once in a while.
3. Delegation Difficulties
The same grit and determination that fuel entrepreneurs in the early days can become a liability as their businesses grow.
Many founders struggle with relinquishing control and delegating effectively, feeling like they're the only ones who can do things right.
This is partly because the personality traits that make someone a great entrepreneur - like low agreeableness and high conscientiousness - don't always translate to being a great manager.
Research shows that while managers with low agreeableness tend to produce better results, their subordinates are often less happy and satisfied.
But the harsh truth is that trying to do everything yourself is a surefire way to stunt your growth and burn out fast.
As your business scales, you need to learn to let go, trust your team, and focus on your zone of genius.
That means building a rockstar team, setting clear expectations, and then getting the hell out of their way.
It means learning to delegate, automate, and eliminate tasks that aren't the highest and best use of your time.
And it means accepting that sometimes, done is better than perfect.
In fact, in companies that scale to hundreds of millions in revenue, it's rare for the founding entrepreneur to remain at the helm throughout the entire journey. Learning to step back and empower others is a critical skill for long-term success.
Read more: Maximize your business efficiency by focusing on your strengths. Discover how to outsource your weaknesses effectively with our strategic guide, ensuring you excel in your core competencies while managing other tasks smartly.
4. Harsh Leadership Style
A little bit of disagreeableness can go a long way in the cutthroat world of entrepreneurship.
It's what allows founders to make tough calls, stand their ground, and not give a damn about ruffling a few feathers along the way.
But when left unchecked, that same trait can manifest as a lack of tact, empathy, and emotional intelligence.
Entrepreneurs with a sharp edge may find themselves unintentionally alienating their teams, partners, and customers with their blunt communication style and relentless intensity.
The key is to learn to temper that edge with a bit of good old-fashioned people skills. That means practicing active listening, leading with empathy, and occasionally softening your language.
It means understanding that a garden grows better with nurturing than with neglect and that a little bit of diplomacy can go a long way.
5. Adapting to Leadership Role
As your business grows, that lone-wolf mindset that served well can bite you when managing a team. Low agreeableness makes it tough to build a strong culture and inspire loyalty.
Transitioning to a leader means developing new skills like listening, empathizing, and communicating effectively. It means creating a culture of trust and respect.
Leadership can be learned through self-awareness, seeking mentors, and stepping out of the comfort zone. Experimenting with different communication and decision-making styles helps you grow.
Your success depends on inspiring others to reach their full potential, which requires agreeableness and emotional intelligence that may not come naturally.
The entrepreneurial personality type is a double-edged sword. The same traits that make founders unstoppable can also be their Achilles' heel if left unchecked.
The good news is, that with the right support and strategies, entrepreneurs can learn to harness their superpowers while mitigating the risks.
And that's where Commit Action comes in.
Our coaching program is designed specifically for entrepreneurs who want to level up their performance and their lives. We provide the structure, accountability, and psychological tools founders need to navigate the ups and downs of the journey.
Our coaches act as an objective sounding board, helping entrepreneurs identify blind spots, work through limiting beliefs, and stay focused on their biggest goals. We're not just here to talk shop - we're here to support the whole human behind the business.
Assess Your Unique Entrepreneur Profile
By now you're probably thinking "This is all well and good, but how do I figure out my entrepreneurial personality type?"
First of all: forget all those fluffy, pseudo-scientific personality tests out there.
Myers-Briggs? DISC? Might as well be reading your horoscope!
But fear not.
At Commit Action, our entrepreneur personality assessment is rooted in the most reliable, science-backed model out there: the Big Five.
Take our assessment to get a clear picture of your entrepreneurial personality profile. See how you score on the five key traits that impact entrepreneurial success:
Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.
The results will highlight your innate strengths - traits that can take your business to the next level.
But more importantly, you'll also identify potential blindspots - the areas that need hacking to level-up in the game.
So if you're ready to cut through the noise and uncover what makes you tick, take our assessment here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is the entrepreneur personality type rare?
While certain entrepreneurial traits may be more common than others, the specific combination of traits that makes up the successful entrepreneur personality type is relatively rare in the general population.
2. Is an entrepreneur a personality trait?
Entrepreneurship is not a single personality trait, but rather a combination of traits, skills, and mindsets that together form an entrepreneurial personality type.
3. What is the most common personality type?
In the general population, the most common personality types are those that tend towards average levels of each of the Big Five traits. However, among entrepreneurs, certain traits like high openness and conscientiousness are more common.
4. What is the number one trait of entrepreneurs?
While there is no single "number one" trait, many experts agree that grit - the combination of passion and perseverance towards long-term goals - is one of the most important traits for entrepreneurial success.
5. Which type of entrepreneurs are most successful?
The most successful entrepreneurs tend to be those who have a strong combination of visionary thinking, adaptability, and execution skills. They are self-aware, leveraging their unique strengths while also addressing their weaknesses.