Being an entrepreneur is defined as someone who starts a business, but there is so much to that word behind the scenes. It’s about having a vision and the willingness to take a risk to see that vision come true. In this article, we’ll cover some of the history behind the word “entrepreneur” , its origins, and how it applies to us today.
The word “entrepreneur” is French, most likely originating from French economist Jean-Baptiste Say, building off the word entreprendre which can be translated to “adventurer”. Say was famous for his books about economics, specifically about markets and how they are made. In fact, he had active correspondence with Thomas Jefferson, who continuously asked Say to move to Virginia to teach. While he denied these attempts, his views of entrepreneurship continue.
Say writes that entrepreneurs are those who find inefficient uses of resources or capital and move them into more productive allocations. In other words, entrepreneurs are those who seek opportunities and through that, create new markets. By doing this as well entrepreneurs stop monopolies from forming and keep innovation and the economy fresh.
We hope you found this information educational about the history behind the word “entrepreneur” and how that can apply to you today. At Heightened Leaders, we believe that there is no, “one size fit all” solution to your business journey, only YOUR solution, and we will work directly with you and your business to find that solution. Visit our website to start a conversation and get your business journey moving today!