The Manila Times

MANAGING FOR SOCIETY

MANAGING FOR SOCIETY ADRIAN MABALAY

WHEN I was just a little boy, I asked my mother what will I be. She said I’m handsome. Will I be rich? Here’s what she said to me, “Que sera, sera. Whatever will be, will be. Your future’s not ours to see. Que sera, sera. What will be, will be.”

As the melody envelops you, transporting you back to the innocent days of childhood, the lyrics resonate with a newfound significance. “Que sera, sera,” a Spanish phrase that translates to “Whatever will be, will be” in English, echoes the uncertainties and dreams that fuel the entrepreneurial spirit. It is a popular saying that expresses a sense of acceptance and resignation toward the future’s uncertainty.

However, in the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, success often seems like an elusive butterfly, fluttering just out of reach. Rather, carefully cultivating specific personality traits propels individuals to achieve remarkable feats. While some may be inclined to embrace the “Que sera, sera” philosophy, suggesting that outcomes are beyond our control, a closer examination reveals the undeniable influence of personality traits in the journey toward entrepreneurial success.

Contrary to the notion that success is arbitrary, researchers have uncovered a compelling relationship between personality traits and entrepreneurial achievements. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of determination, resilience and creativity in driving entrepreneurial success. They also found that entrepreneurs are more likely to be high in personality traits, such as extraversion, conscientiousness and openness to experience. Studies also found that entrepreneurs are likely to be low in neuroticism, a trait disposition to experience negative emotions, including anger, anxiety, worry, self-doubt, irritability, emotional instability and depression. These traits are the foundation upon which entrepreneurs build their visions, navigate challenges and shape their destinies.

Entrepreneurship is a journey that demands courage, perseverance and a healthy dose of motivation. Just as the story of turning rice into a symbol of inspiration captivated the hearts of many, we must find our cupfuls of motivational rice, the fuel that ignites our passion and propels us forward.

But beyond motivation lies an equally vital ingredient in the entrepreneurial recipe: luck. While we cannot control or predict the twists and turns that await us, luck can sometimes lend a serendipitous hand. The push propels us toward unexpected opportunities, fortuitous encounters and the chance to transform our dreams into reality.

While some may argue that success is purely a matter of luck or circumstance, it is clear that personality traits play a pivotal role in the entrepreneurial realm. These traits provide the foundation for entrepreneurs to build their ventures, enabling them to persevere, adapt, innovate and connect with others. They are not whims of fate but intentional qualities that can be nurtured and developed.

Success is not a mere roll of the dice. The “que sera, sera” philosophy embraces both the power of human agency and the acceptance of life’s uncertainties. It results from unwavering determination, resilience in adversity, creative thinking and the ability to build meaningful connections. It encourages us to take calculated risks, embrace failures as stepping stones to success and remain adaptable in the face of ever-changing circumstances. These traits form the bedrock of the Schumpeterian and Kirznerian entrepreneurial triumphs, enabling individuals to shape their destinies and create lasting impacts in the ever-evolving business landscape.

As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, armed with determination, resilience and a touch of creativity, it is essential to remember the wisdom encapsulated in the timeless song. With an extra cupful of motivational rice and a push of luck, this anthem serves as a reminder that the future is yours to shape and embrace, and so — when I grew up and fell in love, I asked my dear friends what will I be. They said I’m handsome. Will I be rich? Here’s what they said to me, “Que sera, sera. Whatever you do will be. Your future’s for you to see. Que sera, sera. What you do will be.”

Adrian A. Mabalay, while listening to “Que Sera, Sera,” realized a somewhat antithesis to the song based on several entrepreneurial research. He is interested in the simple complexities of business, economics, public finance, sustainability and governance. Connect with him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram or email adrian_mabalay@dlsu. edu.ph.

Business Times

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2023-06-06T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-06-06T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://digitaledition.manilatimes.net/article/282003266817133

The Manila Times