Entrepreneurship is not just a single journey, but rather a series of adventures that can lead to valuable experiences and personal growth. It takes a certain set of characteristics to become a successful entrepreneur, and the recent success of Malaysian-born actress Michelle Yeoh at the 2023 Oscars can offer some valuable insights.
Michelle Yeoh is not just a world-class actress and producer, but also an embodiment of several entrepreneurial mindsets that are critical for business leaders. One of her most notable characteristics is her perseverance, which has helped her navigate the challenges of being a female actress in a male-dominated industry. Michelle’s ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain a positive attitude despite challenges is essential for entrepreneurs facing obstacles on their journey to success.
Resourcefulness is another crucial trait exemplified by Michelle Yeoh. Throughout her career, she has taken on challenging roles that pushed her outside her comfort zone. Despite not being trained in martial arts, she relied on her dance discipline and on-set trainers to overcome her weaknesses and excel in action scenes. This kind of resourceful thinking is essential for entrepreneurs who need to leverage their strengths to overcome their weaknesses and succeed in a competitive market.
Innovation is also a critical characteristic of successful entrepreneurs, and Michelle Yeoh has demonstrated her willingness to experiment and try new things. She has produced and directed her own films, constantly finding new ways to improve her craft and stay ahead of the competition. This kind of innovative thinking is essential for entrepreneurs who need to constantly evolve and adapt to changing market conditions.
Finally, Michelle Yeoh is known for her commitment to excellence, which is crucial for entrepreneurs who need to deliver high-quality solutions to address market issues meaningfully. Her dedication to her craft and approach to each role with a commitment to excellence reflect the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to succeed in a fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.
At the recent Oscars, Michelle shared her philosophy on life, stating that it is all about embracing chaos, taking risks, and making changes. She reminds us to be mindful of how we change and why we do it, a lesson that holds true for entrepreneurs who must deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions that address market issues meaningfully.
Michelle’s unwavering commitment to excellence is a characteristic that successful business leaders possess. Her perseverance, resourcefulness, innovative thinking, and dedication are all essential qualities for entrepreneurs who want to succeed in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.
Entrepreneurship is not just a subject that can be learned in a class; it is a moment that one experiences and embraces with a purpose in mind. Aspiring entrepreneurs can look to Michelle’s characteristics and apply her lessons to their own journeys to better prepare themselves for the bumpy road ahead.
About the author
Professor Brian K. M. Wong (keemunw@gmail.com) marketing and entrepreneurial mindset enthusiast based in the Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, has extensive experience in both academia and industry. His expertise in the areas of marketing, strategy, management, and entrepreneurship is evident in his writing and teachings, which strike a balance between elegance and simplicity.
