Being Cocky: Good or Bad for Business?
Can the surgeon actually think that he can fix someone by cutting them open with a sharp knife?
Can the artist actually think that he can influence millions with the stroke of his brush?
Can the entrepreneur actually think that he can change the world with the implementation of his idea?
Yes. Yes. And… Yes. – They do think that!
Theses people do think that they can do these amazing things and that is what makes it possible. In order to accomplish these seemingly impossible tasks, a degree of arrogance or cockiness must be present.
How does Cockiness Help the Entrepreneur?
1.) It can help you not settle for less. In certain situations, it’ll take a cocky mind to make the right choice as opposed to the mind that is willing to settle for any old thing (quality is the way to go, always).
2.) It can help you set high standards for yourself which can result in superior products and services to what’s already out there.
3.) The cocky entrepreneur chooses to associate him or herself with excellence, not mediocre individuals.
How does Cockiness Destroy the Entrepreneur?
1.) You may tend to believe that nobody is competition to you and before your know it, the same company that you chose to not take seriously as a competitor is now swimming in cash while you’re still swimming in water.
2.) Cockiness can blind you to opportunities that you may pass on because you deemed it “not on your level.” Opportunities that could have put your company on the map, silly!
3.) You may build a following of enemies who have become sick and tired of your “I’m better than you, sucker” attitude. And… last I checked, enemies aren’t good for business.
So Should I be Cocky or Not?
To a degree, the entrepreneur should be cocky when it’s in the best interest of his company and his plans to change the world. But when the cockiness starts to get to your head, you’ll soon find yourself floating away to a place that is void of success and great business opportunities.
But most importantly: never rock out with your cock out (unless you’re at a nude beach).
