In general, an entrepreneur is a task-oriented and charismatic person. Entrepreneurs drive themselves and others relentlessly, yet their personalities also inspire others. Although some authorities disagree about whether an entrepreneurial personality exists, evidence is accumulating that many entrepreneurs share a recognizable personality pattern.

Entrepreneurs have stronger achievement motives than most leaders. To accomplish what they think needs to be accomplished, entrepreneurs are willing to work extraordinary hours, with twelve-hour days, seven days a week not being unusual. Entrepreneurs are highly enthusiastic, partially because they are so excited about their achievements. The enthusiasm of entrepreneurs often develops into passion.

A theoretical analysis of entrepreneurial passion suggests that it is invested in three roles. First is the inventor role of recognizing an opportunity such as seeing the need for a product or service. Second is the founder role of creating the venture, with all its associated managerial and leadership responsibilities. Third is the developer role of growing the venture, such as expanding into the global market.

The natural link is that entrepreneurship is inherently proactive—to be an entrepreneur one has to scan the environment to find an opportunity, and then capitalize on the opportunity. One reason many entrepreneurs focus on the future is that their enthusiasm and passion for their present product or service may fade over time. It might help to change and refine ideas rather than sticking to the same plan. As the entrepreneur learns more about his or her product, customers, and the market, the original idea might evolve.