Learning & Life

Mind Your Own Business: Becoming an Entrepreneur

By Eneida Alcalde
Learning & Life Columnist
Oprah Winfrey is an icon of entrepreneurial savvy. In the mid-80s, Oprah shattered gender and racial barriers to host the highest-rated talk show in television and now runs her own multimedia empire. Much like Oprah--although not as high-profile--countless entrepreneurs follow their own business dreams, giving them the ability to balance their jobs with their family lives.

Own Your Own Time

An entrepreneur is someone who uses creative practices to organize and operate her own business venture. Consider Aleta Margolis, a mother of two and the founder of the Center for Inspired Teaching in Washington, D.C. Eleven years ago, at age 28, Aleta established CTI to re-train longtime teachers to be more effective and engaging in school. Aleta's entrepreneurial vision consists of safer schools where children are engaged in active learning that allows for the development of problem-solving skills.

While positively impacting education for over 125,000 students, Aleta has learned to balance her career with family by managing her own schedule, which includes deserved vacations during the holidays. At times, she also allows herself to perform her job from home, enjoying invaluable family time throughout the year.

Online MBA Degree Programs

Got an idea for your own company? Many entrepreneurs start out with a college education in business or a related degree. A popular business degree program offered at many online and campus-based universities is the Master of Business Administration (MBA). The MBA's popularity stems from the range of job possibilities it prepares you for, and the competitive advantage it gives graduates in their careers.

Generally, MBA courses are designed to teach management, marketing and general business skills. They are so widespread these days, however, that there are a number of specializations available, including entrepreneurship.

To be a successful entrepreneur, you can choose from many paths--or carve out your own way to success. With an online degree, you can pursue your dreams without giving up your family life or interrupting your current career. And you'll have the freedom to create your job's schedule, work from home, and spend time with family and friends.

Sources

About the Author
Eneida P. Alcalde works in Washington, DC and has written several grants, educational manuals, and promotional material for development organizations. Eneida holds a B.A. in international politics and Spanish from The Pennsylvania State University.

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