Many stories would have you believe that markers of entrepreneurial success they are faith, talent and courage. And while mastery of these things can certainly play a role in your achievements, there are other foundational skills—specifically, soft skills—that drive success.

As a CEO, I have come to recognize the important characteristics of other entrepreneurs, what makes them different and, ultimately, the key predictors of success. Here are the most prominent factors that make a high-achieving entrepreneur.

Related: How mastering these 4 soft skills has driven my business to success

1. Self-motivation

While trust is essential to navigating the first steps of your entrepreneurial journey, self-motivation it is the fuel that provides sustained effort over time. Successful entrepreneurs have a strong inner strength that keeps them going, even in difficult times. Self-motivation means that your internal drive (aspirations, goals and fulfillment) rather than external motivators (coaches, money or competition) keep you going. You see challenges and failures as learning experiences rather than dead ends.

For example, an entrepreneur may experience several rounds of rejection from investors before they get that first “Yes” to fund their startup. Instead of falling victim to self-loathing or constant comparison, they refresh themselves and use feedback to improve their level. Self-motivation keeps the wheels turning even when external motivators fail.

2. Healthy habits

Running a business is challenging and the people who make it a priority WELFARE through rest, mental health and physical health are better equipped to meet these challenges. Healthy habits are essential, as they support lasting productivity, creativity and resilience.

For me, time with family supports my happiness and mental health. Prioritizing time with my children is absolutely vital, not only for me, but for their growth and well-being. This time is blocked on my calendar as non-negotiable. That time is protected and no one can interrupt it except in the case of a genuine emergency.

For you, it could be your daily time at the gym, your evening meditation without skipping breakfast, or your evening date with your spouse. “Grinding” is not worth it if it comes at the expense of health or RELATIONS. Successful entrepreneurs are well balanced and know how to prioritize what nourishes them in relationships, physically and spiritually.

3. Emotional intelligence (EQ)

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is about more than just recognizing your emotions and feelings; it's also about being attuned to the needs and feelings of others. The long-outdated idea that entrepreneurs should be stoic and self-absorbed. The mark of a good leader is someone who can manage their emotions while empathizing with others.

In business, EQ affects everything from team dynamics and customer relations to advertising and professional partnerships. Entrepreneurs with high EQ remain calm under pressure, solve interpersonal problems diplomatically, motivate others, and listen to understand. Emotional fit builds trust and ensures your team feels heard and valued, which is a cornerstone of organizational success.

Related: What makes a good leader? Here's what I've learned after 20 years as a CEO.

4. Collaborative thinking

As entrepreneurs, we may be the visionaries in our business, but that doesn't mean we have all the answers. Being an effective leader means being able to recognize that certain areas (for example, accounting or operations) are not your strong suit and are better filled by the mindset of your team. This requires a flexible ego and an openness to collaborative thinking.

For example, I'm the “idea guy” who likes to propose new business endeavors, speaking gigs, marketing campaigns, and service offerings. But I need my counterweight, my boss, to not only know how to make these visions a reality, but also when you say “No”. He knows how to keep me on track without raining on my parade. It provides structure and a “where the rubber meets the road” energy that is a perfect reflection of my creativity and my can-do attitude.

Influential entrepreneurs know that there is power in collaboration, and they rely not only on their own skills, but also on the strengths of their team, peers, and mentors.

5. Resistance

Even the best business minds face setbacks, whether it's market downturns, investment failures, bad partnerships or financial difficulties. The true test of a successful entrepreneur is whether they can persevere through difficult times, turning frustration into motivation and challenges into learning opportunities.

Endurance it's the backbone of entrepreneurship—picking yourself up, turning to new ideas, and moving forward even when things are tough. For example, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, many restaurant owners turned to a delivery-only business model. They used technology to find new ways to get goods to customers, even in the face of serious financial risk.

Adaptability in action empowers you to protect your business, keep staff employed and evolve your business structure, especially in times of uncertainty.

Related: 10 lessons about failure every entrepreneur should know

Great business owners are not born, they are made. Anyone is capable of developing the skills necessary to become a confident, compassionate and successful entrepreneur. If this includes the establishment healthy habitsbuilding emotional intelligence or practicing resilience, these soft skills are what are needed to keep your business in balance.

Remember to channel your inner drive to keep up with the trucks ahead and see obstacles as a chance to challenge yourself rather than a pressure cave. Success is often on the other side of difficult decisions, market changes and personal development.