If you are the kind of person who would rather run his own show (and business!) rather than be somebody's employee, then you might want to consider entrepreneurship. However, before you leap, it would be a good idea to know what the qualities of a successful entrepreneur are.

Striking on your own and working for your self are exciting prospects, but make sure you don't go in unprepared. Here are a few qualities that you will find successful entrepreneurs have, so check to make sure you either have these things suggested by Monster - or that you can develop them. 

1. Do you have what it takes to bounce back?

Perhaps the biggest difference between working fixed hours for a fixed wage and being your own boss is that you need to be highly motivated. Entrepreneurs need enthusiasm, optimism - and vision. Believing in yourself is half the battle, and there will most definitely be setbacks. If you think you would rather play it safe and do not believe that bouncing back is something you are very, very good at - don't jump off this cliff.

2. Are you persuasive?

You will not just have to persuade investors, and clients, and customers - but also yourself. Do you have what it takes to sell yourself? Are you persistent? Will you promote your business tirelessly and look for new ways to spread the word about your product or service?

3. Are you flexible?

If you are not a successful multi-tasker and cannot handle a wide variety of different kinds of work, think twice before starting your own business. In the beginning especially, as a business owner you will very likely have to play jack-of-all-trades. You may not have the funds to hire a support staff. Can you play secretary, bookkeeper at the same time?

4. Do you have amazing business skills?

There's really no getting around this one: if you're starting up a business, you need to be a natural at setting up internal systems, procedures and processes needed to run a business. You can expect to be focused on cash flow, sales and revenue all the time. You are going to need your business know-how, so make sure it is at hand.

5. Are you a risk taker?

Launching anything new, on your own, is going to involve all kinds of risks: especially financial ones. Are you the kind of person who can handle risks? Only you can decide this.