Have you ever wondered whether you truly have the mindset of an entrepreneur? There’s a lot of talk about what makes someone cut out for entrepreneurship—grit, passion, risk tolerance, and innovation. But sometimes, a simple question can reveal more than a dozen personality tests.
So, here it is: If you got a raise at work, how would you use the money?
Take a moment. Be honest with yourself. Would your first instinct be to upgrade your lifestyle—buy a new gadget, splurge on a vacation, or dine out more often? Or would you think about how to make that money work for you—by investing it, saving it, or using it to start something of your own?
If you chose the latter, congratulations. You may already be thinking like an entrepreneur.
Why This One Question Matters
This simple question taps into your natural response to new resources—money, in this case. One of the key traits of successful business owners is their ability to delay gratification and make strategic investments.
Entrepreneurs aren’t driven by instant rewards. Instead, they focus on long-term returns. They see money not just as a tool to spend but as a seed to plant, water, and grow.
This mindset is surprisingly similar to that of seasoned investors. Both entrepreneurs and investors assess opportunities, calculate risks, and project returns. They make decisions not based on what feels good now but on what might pay off later.
The Investor vs. Consumer Mentality
Many people live as consumers, and there’s nothing inherently wrong with that. But consumers prioritize comfort and security, often using extra income to enhance their quality of life today. Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, often sacrifice short-term comforts for long-term gains.
Think about it: a consumer might use a $5,000 raise to buy a new car or remodel a kitchen. An entrepreneur might use the same money to purchase tools for a side hustle, enroll in a course, or hire help to free up time.
That doesn’t mean entrepreneurs don’t enjoy life—it just means their first thought is how to multiply their resources, not spend them.
So, Which One Are You?
The beauty of this test is in its simplicity. It’s not about passing or failing—it’s about insight. Your instinctive answer can show you where your mindset is today. And the best part? Mindsets can change.
If your first thought was to spend the raise, that doesn’t mean you’re not cut out to be an entrepreneur. But it may suggest there’s some inner work to do around how you view money, risk, and opportunity. There are plenty of great books, like Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, that explore how shifting your financial mindset can open new doors.
Final Thoughts
Being an entrepreneur isn’t about always having the “right” answer—it’s about thinking differently. It’s about seeing potential where others see obstacles and being willing to invest in yourself and your vision.
So, if you took this one-question entrepreneurial test, what did your answer say about you? And if you didn’t like your answer, what will you do about it?
