Starting out as an entrepreneur comes with a bag of mixed emotions; excitement is common to all but so also anxiety about the future. More than often, a fear of the unknown could make anyone think twice about their decision. All one needs to be back on track is a little inspiration. If you have been missing the rush, fall back on the guys who have been there and done it all! We bring you 5 very successful ideas from 5 extraordinary people; a round of applause for, “The Entrepreneur Gurus”.



Donald Trump: No prizes for guessing what he does for a living! Mr. Trump, also called “The Donald”, assumed responsibility of his father's business, the Trump Organization, in the 1970s, which focused on middle class rental housing. By 1994, he had come to the point of being a pauper. But he fought back and built an empire, parts of which can be seen bearing his name in Manhattan. Learn his style from the tycoon himself in “Trump The Art of the Deal”.

Bill Gates: From becoming the world's richest man to being richer still (his recent philanthropy has proved rumors about a heart of gold correct), Bill Gates is inspiration personified. Known to all as the co-founder of Microsoft® Corporation, his user friendly Operating System - Windows®, took the personal computer to every home. He is living proof of how far you could go by innovating. In his book “The Road Ahead”, Gates writes about his stepping stones to success.

Thomas Alva Edison: His claim to fame? Light! His Menlo Park research lab turned out some of the first incandescent electric bulbs. Unlike the previous two entrepreneur gurus, Edison had a tough childhood, being handicapped by partial deafness. His first forays into inventing were laden with failure, but he survived it all to become one among the most admired entrepreneur gurus of all times.

Estée Lauder: “Make the world, a better place” sang Jackson, but this lady made it her business to make the world look better as well! Her range of cosmetics gave beauty a new meaning. Starting with four skin care products, she soon expanded her empire to address the grooming needs of men as well. The brand loyalty she attracted with her determination and sharp business acumen could serve as a shining example to aspiring entrepreneurs. Estée shares her experiences with “Estée: A Success Story”.

Anne Geddes: She can do more than read a baby's mind; she can get it to pose for lovable pictures!! Geddes, a professional photographer cum designer, owns a widespread business of designer clothes for babies, greeting cards and many other collectibles. “Until Now” by Anne Geddes, showcases her work well. With many achievements under her belt, this entrepreneur guru is still raring to go.

You don't need to look too far from home to find an inspirational story. The world abounds them. Take the case of Joanna Alberti, who runs a small greeting cards business called “philoSophie's” featuring the sketch of a young and confident character named Sophie or that of Nancy Montano, who runs an environment waste transporting company at the age of 22. Another young entrepreneur shares her secrets. learn to make money in places you never thought possible! For all the information you need on starting and running a successful business, read “The Young Entrepreneur's Guide to Starting and Running a Business” by Steve Mariotti.

Entrepreneur gurus set themselves apart from others in the business with their ability to think ahead, backed by sheer grit and oodles of self confidence. You could be one too; all you never need do is say die!