Entrepreneurial Leap, Updated and Expanded Edition

by Gino Wickman

You've thought about starting your own business . . . but how can you decide if you should really take the leap?

There's a lot on the line, and you have to ask yourself difficult questions: Do I have what it takes? Is it worth it? And how the hell do I do it?

You need answers, not bullshit. This book has them.

Entrepreneurial Leap, Updated and Expanded Edition is an easy-to-use guide that will help you decide, once and for all, if entrepreneurship is right for you—because success as an entrepreneur depends on far more than just a great idea and a generous helping of luck.

In this three-part book, Gino Wickman, bestselling author of Traction, reveals the six essential traits that every entrepreneur needs in order to succeed, based on real-world startups that have reached incredible heights. If these traits ring true for you, you'll get a glimpse of what your life would look like as an entrepreneur. What's more, Wickman will help you determine what type of business best suits your unique skill set and provide a detailed roadmap, with tools, tips, and exercises, that will accelerate your path to startup success.

Packed with real-life stories and practical advice, Entrepreneurial Leap, Updated and Expanded Edition is a simple how-to manual for BIG results.

Should you take the leap toward entrepreneurship? Find out today and let tomorrow be the first step in your new journey, whatever shape it may take.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Buisness, Entrepreneurship, Audiobook

256 pages, Hardcover

Published April 4, 2023

About the author

An entrepreneur since the age of 21, Gino has always had an obsession for learning what makes businesses and entrepreneurs thrive.

At 25, Gino took over the family business, which was deeply in debt and in need of help. After turning the company around and running it for seven years, he and his partners successfully sold the company.

Gino then set out to help entrepreneurs and leaders get what they want from their businesses.

Reviews

[Sadie Forsythe]

I won this here on Goodreads and it couldn't have been more timely. My husband JUST incorporated and started his own business. By default, that kind of means we started a business. I opened this book full of hope, but DNFed it very early (in chapter one). I disagree with the definition of entrepreneur the author is basing the book on. That's far too basic a tenet to disagree on and come to a mutual understanding on a matter.

Interestingly, I showed the book to my husband when it arrived and he scoffed, stating, "Entrepreneur is just one of this BS buzz words that means someone works to make money by moving money." (That's not an exit quote.) Turns out there's a reason I married that man, he seems to be right (if a little overly generalized) about the intent, if not the exact buzz word's definition.

My problem started with some of those Wickman chose to specifically exclude from definitional entrepreneurial-ship and solidified with, "To qualify, they have to rapidly grow their companies from scratch or take over a family business and make a truly significant change." He seems to require success as the marker of an entrepreneur, only to be known after the fact. It's like a personal trainer who is only interested in working with beautiful, instragram-worthy youths (who are already in shape), while ignoring the middle aged mother of two, or elderly stroke victim because they don't fit the expected image of "success." No matter how hard they work, their success will look different than a 25-year-old's. I see no indication that Wickman will make exceptions for this. The tone is just a little too snobbishly elitist of my taste.

But then, I imagine those that fit Wickman's narrow definition of entrepreneur will enjoy this quite a lot.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book on Goodreads. This book really resonates with me. I found this book to be an eye-opener for many reasons. My business partner and I started a business a couple years ago from scratch and have been considering restructuring it into something different so I was drawn towards this book. I have been feeling a pull towards trying something different and the author was able to put it in words that I couldn't. I meet a majority of the traits of a true entrepreneur but not all the criteria and the type of person I am is much more suited towards a lifestyle entrepreneur meaning following a certain niche that I am more geared towards, this book explains that. I have also witnessed a family business turned to dust once the father passed it along to his son and totally destroyed it, all that remains in that location is literally dirt, no buildings, homes, just nothing but dirt. The author explains whether or not one should or should not become an entrepreneur and that not all people can be entrepreneurs and sometimes family businesses are destroyed once passed down due to lack of certain traits within that person. The author expresses very well that certain traits should be meet before venturing into becoming an entrepreneur otherwise there are other jobs out there to excel in.

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh. I feel like some of this book was helpful reminders, but a lot was a bit over-generalized. I’ve been building my business for 4 years now and have been successful (based on my meaning of successful), and love what I do. That said, the idea that there are certain traits you HAVE to have to be an entrepreneur, and that you either have them or don’t…doesn’t seemed to be backed by any actual psychological study or data. He also take a very “you either have them, or you don’t, and if you don’t- you shouldn’t be an Entreprenuer” approach. In truth, those traits (visionary, risk taker, driven, etc) are more of a spectrum than a “have it” or “don’t have it”. I would never consider myself a “risk taker” (My background is accounting after all), but all that really means is that I don’t take leaps without doing the legwork to make sure the data supports my plans. I don’t take massive “leaps of faith” and I’m methodical in my decision making…and yet somehow I’ve still built a thriving business and team.

I could see the traits being more true if he defined an entrepreneur as someone aiming to build a 100M+ company…that probably takes a certain amount of bravado, drive, and big risks to get those big rewards. BUT he talks in the next chapter about determining how large you want your business to be, and admits that not every entrepreneur aims for that, and that’s okay. I would say there are many entrepreneurs with $1-10M businesses who don’t “check all the entrepreneurial trait” boxes, but are still happy and successful. I also think you CAN hone some of these traits as you build your leadership skills.

Overall though, I do think that there are a lot of people that get into entrepreneurship accidentally (or are persuaded by believing it will make them rich quick), and aren’t really happy- so I understand the value of giving a “real” picture of what entrepreneurship looks like so there are better expectations going in. But I think he’s a little heavy-handed in his diagnosis of what you MUST be to be a successful entrepreneur. The quiz told me I probably shouldn’t be an entrepreneur…yet there is literally nothing else I would rather be doing! So take it with a grain of salt for sure.

[Scott Wozniak · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise of this book is just wrong. He has an assessment to help you decide if you should become an entrepreneur (which he has his own definition of). The whole point of the book--from the assessment and the following chapters that go deep on each element of the assessment--is that you need to be a particular kind of person to be a successful entrepreneur.

I'm okay with that general idea. But his answer to that is to outline a specific personality type (an aggressive, action-oriented, risk-taking, conceptual dreamer who sets big goals). And that's just wrong. Not offensive to me. I'm not upset at all. I just happen to many, many very successful entrepreneurs who don't have the personality type that he is describing.

It sounds like a classic case of "he was successful so he's saying in order to be successful you need to be like him".

[Gretchen · Rating 2 out of 5]

A very strange approach to determining whether you should become an entrepreneur. First, determine if you fit the (narrow) definition. Then decide what type of business you want to start (B2B/B2C, Industry, etc.). It's not until Chapter 11 that the author discusses 'discover your passion.' I would definitely rewrite this book starting with discovering your passion, determining if you can solve a problem or create an opportunity, determining if it can be monetized, and deciding if you should be the one to lead it or what help you need!

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

With mdw and this, you should be ready to make the leap or know to wait until better ready.

take the time through the guides to get thoughts and feelings on the page and ensure you're ready for the ups and downs.

[Mohamed Al-Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely read from one ADHD to another

[Marta · Rating 2 out of 5]

While this book had a lot of useful advice, it bothered me that the author believes that entrepreneurs are "born, not made." There are parts in the book where he states that if the reader can't respond yes to certain questions, then they should put the book down because they can't be an entrepreneur.

People's ambitions, priorities, and hopes change over time. Even if they're not ready to be an entrepreneur today, they might be in the future. And if they want to try, they should. There's no shortage of naysayers trying to discourage those trying to build something new.

[Mark M · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has entire chapters that are solid.

This book also has entire chapters that are not.

I disagree with his narrow definition of what makes an entrepreneur. He clearly just looked in the mirror when he wrote his definition.

Overall it’s a good read for some basic encouragement and structure for entrepreneurial endeavors but if I could, I’d give this one 2.5 stars.

[Andrea F · Rating 3 out of 5]

tl:dr - I always go into reading books like these with a heavy amount of skepticism and readying myself for what this person is probably going to try to sell me. Overall, I enjoyed how this book made me think a little deeper about myself and what exactly I want based on my strengths. It’s easy to read and has clear action items if you’re struggling with where to get started but on the flip side, there are also a handful of red flags that put me off.

First, let’s chat briefly about a personal appreciation for a comment that was made by the author; He mentioned briefly that ADHD is a gift and entrepreneurship is something to consider if you have it. If you have any sense of what it’s like to live with ADHD, you spend your life trying to fix yourself to fit into a 9-5 sedentary life when really your boredom comes from having a lot of ideas and energy and you just need help focusing it. However, that is about it… it doesn’t go into much more detail than that about ADHD + Entrepreneurship. But it’s nice to hear sometimes that you’re not a total failure because of your chaotic brain.

Second, the book is formatted nicely and it’s an easy, quick read. If you’re an impatient person wanting to start your business ASAP, that is probably a solid benefit. The questions or “worksheets” at the end of each chapter seem helpful to get the ball rolling (which is really important). They don’t seem groundbreaking in any way but for $13 (Kindle version) it seems like a great place to start. The red flag here is that the book does point to the author’s website A LOT which is covered in promotions selling a 9-month “academy”.

One area that resonated with me but simultaneously put me off was the topic of Wickman’s 6 essential traits you MUST have to be a successful entrepreneur. The six traits made sense to me and seem like traits you should have not only to run a successful business but also to maintain a “happy” lifestyle while doing it. What didn’t make sense was repeatedly stating (I’m paraphrasing here) “If you don’t possess the fundamental traits required, you’re SOL and you’ll never be a successful business owner. Best wishes making $25/hr working for someone who does have these traits.” It fails to mention (or maybe realize) these essential traits can be taught if you “lack” them or strengthened if they’re maybe not as strong as they should be before you start your business. An overly simple example is, when I was 15, I blamed my parents for everything, nothing was ever my fault but as a 30-year-old, I think a little differently now. (Now I blame the government! Just kidding. But you see my point?)

My final note is regarding advice Wickman asked a fellow entrepreneur to give to an entrepreneur-in-the-making:

“Just do it! Being a crappy entrepreneur is better than having a real job! And don’t think that your first business is always going to be your last business.”

Does this feel like this might be someone who is successful but might not possess those 6 traits? We may never know. Personally, this is fine advice but it’s pretty rich coming at the end of this book. And If I'm being honest, I might be more interested in reading their book.

--

Entrepreneurial Leap is a three-part book outlining the six essential traits the author, Gino Wickman, believes you should have to succeed. Wickman outlines the traits, gives you a glimpse of the entrepreneurial life, and sets you on a path to getting started.

[Tait Sougstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a lot of good stuff in here, depending on where you are in life. Probably only 10% applied to me and my situation, but that mismatch of expectation shouldn't reflect poorly on the book.

This is a great book is you are curious about entrepreneurship and haven't done much reading on it. He lays out 6 key traits for an entrepreneur, and helps the reader identify if they have them or not. There are loads of lists of business types, niches, and industries in here if the reader doesn't have any idea where they want to apply themselves.

A few scruples: His philosophy is that character does not change. You either have the traits or you don't, and if you don't, then you shouldn't consider entrepreneurship. One section helpfully gives suggestions of what other roles the reader can fill if they are missing any one of the traits. You may not be an entrepreneur, but depending on what is missing, you may be a great salesman, manager, etc. I fully disagree with the idea that our character is fixed. He even describes how he has changed in different ways throughout his books. If you are well-read, you can take his assertions with a grain of salt, maybe take it as a warning to work on the missing traits before taking the leap. I fear that some people will be discouraged by this teaching and not stretch themselves in ways that would grow them because they don't have "the right DNA".

There are a few pieces of advice in here that were worth the price of admission, though. His tools and disciplines are top notch.

[Lynn DeHart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking the Leap once again!

I have opened 4 hair salons in the US and Mexico, a women’s clothing store and in 1980 ( way before its time) an all natural Body-care products and services, and never could hang on to the money. I worked for 6 years developing a Soap and Bodycare line and did it alone manufacturing in my 540 sq ft garage as I continued to work with my clients at the salon to pay for my new passion. Total burn out…I found this book aster I heard Gino on an Elevate podcast because I’m gearing up again with the help of a person that approached me with 35 years in product development, logistics and sales and all the connections that come with that. She believes in my product and we are going ahead together. After reading this I was able to articulate what I’m good at and the lane I want to be in . I’m on to the next book and podcast …I’ve wish I had this education 45 years ago…I’m turning 68 on my next birthday and full of passion still

[Roger Scherping · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dull and obvious. There is nothing new in this book. Most of it is a rehash of EOS, much like How to Be a Great Boss was. Just as being a great boss is much for than filling out a number of forms, the same applies here. There is much more to entrepreneurship than looking at six traits and completing a survey. If you're an entrepreneur, you don't need a book to confirm it for you, and if you do need a book, then you're not an entrepreneur.

The author presents his observations as though they come from years of extensive research, a la Jim Collins. Wickman is just presenting a bunch of anecdotes. He's a well-informed guy, and his opinion is well-respected (I parted with the $30 to hear it, based on his reputation), but there is nothing of real substance here. Just a lot of anecdotes and inspirational quotes.

[陈 元伟 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good book to start for those who are thinking of embarking on an entrepreneurial journey or simply to find out if you are a technician having an entrepreneur seizure, how Michael Gerber puts it in the E-Myth. He also provided a lot of resources at the end of the book for further exploration, and some of the more notable ones are to do a Clifton Strengths Finder test, read the Startup Owner's Manual for Young Entrepreneurs and to continually upgrade and network with like-minded people and other business owners.

[AlvinJohn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't totally agree with the premise of this book that the traits you need to become a successful entrepreneur (visionary, passionate, problem solver, driven, risk taker, responsible). I think two of those traits, visionary and risk taker, are mostly inborn but the rest can certainly be developed.

I think that with a growth mindset, strong determination, and grit, one can develop most of these traits to become a successful or better entrepreneur.

What I like however is the author's primary focus on self-awareness and having the right motive before taking the entrepreneurial leap.

[Ed Callahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?” If you answered yes to the titled question then the Entrepreneurial Leap by Gino Wickman is a must read for you. It is a balanced look at the risks and rewards in store for you if you take that leap. It contains specific and immediately implementable steps for you to take to figure out if you are an entrepreneur in the making. Followed by a wealth of information for those who are and even some suggestions for those who aren’t. 10/10 for me. #edcinpacomments

[Darya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you driven, visionary, passionate, problem solver, responsible and risk taker? You are very likely to have entrepreneurial features you can develop and thrive. What if you miss any of the traits? Very likely it can be similar to a situation of a car driving without one component. Interesting and engaging book that has a story behind and a story to tell. Plenty of things to learn if you want to be an entrepreneur and some inspiration for this who tried or is an entrepreneur. You will enjoy the stories, reflect on how you do and get inspired for future moves.

[ace americano · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honest review: Just read the summary of each chapter. Or maybe if you need motivation then read some of the stories. Well, in conclusion, if you wanna be an entrepreneur, just TAKE ACTIONS. Reading this book won’t help *chuckles* But yeah, summary, stories and some of the questions are good enough for you to find out whether you are an entrepreneur or not. Oh, the key points of some final chapters are good to follow, in case you feel lost. He already laid out the whole process to start a biz.
Good book recommendation, I’ll check it out. I hope Traction will get better than this

[Lino Verde · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audio book. It outlined intrinsic qualities of entrepreneurs and some recommendations on leaping into entrepreneurial career. One thing I learned was to think 10-year time frame in preparing and planning one's entrepreneur journey. I would read in details again in the future.

[Brekke · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was literally a waste of space and time. There was almost nothing useful about it, and really should’ve been marketed for teens who are considering entrepreneurship not adults who are trying to actually all the business.

[Paul Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simple, straightforward writing. Practical advice backed by conversations with real entrepreneurs. There wasn’t anything groundbreaking here especially if you have already read a lot of Wickman’s stuff but still spot on. Highly recommend for those considering starting their own business!

[Mike · Rating 2 out of 5]

Based on Gino Wickman's reputation for EOS and Traction, I had high hopes. He does not give any advice I saw as particularly bad, but in my opinion, it was not worth the time.

[Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good.

[Cadin Limon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read for anyone considering going out on their own. Gino makes some clear distinctions between what people think entrepreneurship is and a lot of its harsh realities.

[Scott Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entrepreneur must read!

Well worth the read. Wish I would have had this book when I first started my business. This book is a wealth of good information.

[Philip · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book on Goodreads, and I thank the author for providing a solid copy.
The handling of the subject matter seemed solid, however, the objectives of the book and the perspectives from which the subject was treated did not resonate with me. I have been an entrepreneur since I was eight, but if I read this book before then I don't think I would have considered myself one. The perspective of who an entrepreneur is was rather narrow. Perhaps I prefer not to categorize those who can be entrepreneurs because the path to that status is certainly different for everyone.

[DA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Challenging. Either I'm not an "entrepreneur" or I am. There is no development of the qualities or character.