Startup Momentum and an Even Keel

When you have momentum, you look better than you are. When you don’t have momentum, you are better than you look.
— EntreLeadership (@EntreLeadership) July 18, 2013

Startups go through major ups and downs. A major character trait that I’ve noticed in most successful entrepreneurs is the ability to remain steady through the fluctuations. It’s the ability to avoid fear when things are bad¹, and to avoid cockiness (and associated blindness) when things are good.

An even keel is often associated with other attributes unbecoming of a good entrepreneur. An even keel does not imply a boring personality type. An even keel does not imply slow movement or dim wit.

Great entrepreneurs are able to be even keeled in how they view themselves and the world around them – in their emotional state. They can remain even keeled and pragmatic about the things that matter, while being dynamic and responsive in their business execution.

What do you think about an even keel as an important trait of successful entrepreneurs? Do you see a correlation?

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¹ See this Hypepotamus post for example – SH: How do you deal with fear? DC: Blissfully ignorant.

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