Joy isn’t typically listed amongst the top entrepreneurial traits. But maybe it should be?
If you’re going to be investing time (both in duration and in intensity), money, and lots and lots of emotions in this project, why would you choose something that doesn’t bring you joy? The intrinsic motivation is what keeps you going. A deep sense of joy and fulfillment is what keeps you warm on cold days.
As for myself, feeling I can make a difference in people’s lives—especially helping them build projects that are close to their hearts—is key. Whether it’s to transform their industry, make a social difference, or reshape their own life (which often happens anyway), that sense of impact is where I find my joy.
But beyond personal experience, joy is more than a nice-to-have. It’s an entrepreneurial advantage.
Joy Fuels Resilience
Entrepreneurship is a long game. It comes with long nights, uncertain paths, and more than a few rejections. Joy doesn’t erase the hard parts—but it helps you meet them differently. It gives you a well of energy to draw from that isn’t dependent on external validation or short-term results. When you enjoy the process itself, you’re more likely to stay in the game.
It Attracts and Inspires – Everybody in Their Own Style
There’s a reason people are drawn to those who are lit up by what they do. Joy is magnetic. No need to be overly enthusiastic – even if your personality is introverted and you’re having a hard time expressing emotions, people feel your energy. Just be yourself and express it in youw own way. It builds trust. It communicates belief in your mission better than any carefully rehearsed value proposition.
Joy Sparks Creativity
When you’re connected to joy, you’re more open to play, experimentation, and flow. Innovation isn’t only born from pressure—it often emerges from curiosity and freedom. A joyful mindset makes it easier to take risks, test ideas, and see new patterns that others might miss.
Purpose Brings Depth
Of course, joy alone isn’t enough. Without a sense of purpose, it can become fleeting or shallow. But when you connect joy with meaning—when you’re building something that matters to you—you get a powerful combination.
Purpose grounds you. It reminds you why you care. Joy keeps that purpose alive day-to-day, turning the mission into momentum.
Choosing Joy Is a Serious Strategy
Joy doesn’t mean you aren’t taking things seriously. It means you’re choosing to meet challenges with openness, lightness, and presence. And in a world that often glorifies struggle and burnout, that’s a bold—and smart—move.
If you’re building something, make space to express your joy. No need to show something that’s not yours, just creating awareness is enough. Not just as a reward at the end, but as a companion along the way. It just might be your most underrated skill.
Enjoy your path, it’s unique!
