As a startup business, you’re likely looking for inspiration from other entrepreneurs who’ve done some pretty incredible things and have been able to build their businesses and become well known in their industries.
There are plenty of amazing businesspeople you can look up to, and whose strategies and advice you can use to further your very own company. Continue reading to learn about eight successful entrepreneurs that any startup business can use as inspiration.
1. Pat Flynn
Pat Flynn runs a website called Smart Passive Income, but he also runs two podcasts, several other sites, and several coaching programs, in addition to having a book published. This online entrepreneur even shares monthly income reports with readers, making him very genuine and transparent. His first project began as a side project while working full-time, but after he was laid off, he was able to leap into his business idea and focus all of his attention on it. He proves it’s possible to transform a side gig into a full-time career.
2. Tim Ferriss
Known as the “father of lifestyle design,” Tim Ferriss is also renowned for his book titled The Four Hour Workweek, in which he shares strategies for getting more done in a shorter amount of time. Being able to work extremely efficiently is the key to success, making him really inspirational to budding entrepreneurs. He has proven, too, that you can take a side business and make it your full-time focus.
3. John Lemp
Entrepreneur John Lemp is the co-founder of IntegraClick, which is based in Sarasota. His company is a pioneer within the world of cost-per-action advertising online, and his company has grown by leaps and bounds since it was founded in 2002. His marketing and advertising know-how helps businesses promote themselves effectively, and he’s proof that you can do what you love while helping others succeed as well.
4. Sir Richard Branson
Sir Richard Branson has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, as he started his very first magazine at the young age of 16. By 1970, he had founded a mail-order record business and opened up a physical shop for it within just a year. Known for being the creator of Virgin, the brand now goes far beyond music and encompasses everything from space tourism to telecommunications. If you want to be the next Branson, do like he did, and start small, build consistently, and keep at your goals.
5. Ava Anderson
Ava Anderson is one of the few successful entrepreneurs who really got their start while still in high school. Her company, which is called Ava Anderson Non Toxic, was created when she was a mere 14 years old. She wanted to solve a problem that no one else was focusing on, so she decided to forge her own path towards a solution. Today, her company offers a variety of products that are totally safe and non-toxic, made without chemical ingredients. She’s currently still in college but runs her business on the side.
6. Nick Loper
Nick Loper is yet another entrepreneur who started working on his business on the side before he was finally able to make it his full-time gig. Side Hustle Nation is a podcast and blog that shares this unique man’s journey, which started while he was in college, working on painting houses to make money. Using the skills he acquired from his job, he was able to build his own brand, and today, he shares his valuable advice with those who want to be like him.
7. Noah Kagan
Noah Kagan is known for founding AppSumo. This is an online startup business that focuses upon creating tools that will help entrepreneurs like Noah. Prior to working on his own business, he was employed by both Mint and Facebook. His 24-hour business challenge was one that allowed him to begin a $1,000 business in a mere 24 hours. Now he teaches others how to do the same.
8. Mike Ashley
Mike Ashley left school when he was 16, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t one of the most profitable businesspeople today. In the ’80s, he opened a Sport & Ski shop, but he really made it big when he created Sports Direct in the UK, proving that even high school dropouts can become successful entrepreneurs.
With so many inspiring entrepreneurs from all over the world, you can gain the motivation you need to forge your own path towards a career that will put you in control and allow you to do what you love.
