I realized that one of the reasons the sharks want to see that entrepreneurs have sold their product without money, is not just to validate the idea. It’s because they want to understand the level of perseverance. Are you willing to do WHAT EVER it takes to be successful? Including finding ways to get your product sold without money.

Believe it or not, there are zillions of ideas floating around Dallas: from Cajun Turkey bites, to Social media apps, to a device that turns regular shoes into bowling shoes or golfing shoes.

As I watched these budding entrepreneurs I was reminded that the power of entrepreneurship is not the idea. Ideas are a commodity.

What makes a business concept work is the level of perseverance of the entrepreneur.

• You have to be ridiculous passionate about your concept.
• You have to believe in yourself when no one else does.
• You must dust yourself off when you fail, and find new ways of motivating yourself when the walls seem bigger than your ability to overcome.

Building a business isn’t about the entrepreneur’s idea. It’s about the power of perseverance that beats in the hearts of those who refuse to quit.

As I’ve always said: Entrepreneurs have great ideas and no money. Business owners work hard and have a little money left over. CEO’s do what is necessary to become financially free. Choose wisely.