Last year, Forbes released the results of a study conducted by Gallup to uncover the 10 traits of successful entrepreneurs. Over 1,000 people were surveyed and I can’t help but think that the results reflect the characteristics of Opportunity loan recipients beautifully! Take a look at the list below and may it remind you that your investment in mothers is bringing dignity, hope and opportunity to them and their families…

1. Business Focus: They base decisions on the potential to turn a profit.

Nirmala, from India, knew the best way to steward her loan for maximum results:

The loan has helped me because I can buy raw material in bulk, giving me a better price on these purchases. I can now afford a savings account and a gas connection for cooking in my home.

2. Confidence: They know themselves well and can read others.

Sabira, from India, has experienced a new sense of self-confidence:

I have become bold after receiving training to become a health leader. I have received a lot of respect which I never got as a housewife. I want my children to become bold, wise women who are capable of managing their own lives.

3. Creative Thinker: They know how to turn an existing product or idea into something even better.

Arik, from Indonesia, dreams of improving her products:

“My family feels greatly supported since we got a small loan. Now I am trying to pursue my dream to develop my own brand of crackers so that we can earn more for our children.

4. Delegator: They don’t try to do it all.

Shyam, from India, knows training others is critical to expanding her business and social impact:

I used a loan to buy a sewing machine and now, with my income, my children can continue their studies. I can give them clothes and food that I couldn’t before. I am also training 10 other women in sewing so they can earn an income, too.

5. Determination: They battle their way through difficult obstacles.

Linda, from the Philippines, endured hardship thanks to a hand up:

That was the lowest point of my life. I was not yet ready to lose [my husband] as I was used to having him at my side working for our needs. But life must go on. I needed to be strong for the sake of my children. Through [Opportunity’s support], I was able to finance the education of my children so I am very much thankful.

6. Independent: They will do whatever it takes to succeed in the business.

Babita, from India, sacrifices her time to ensure her business is successful:

I get up at 4 or 5am to prepare the samosas for the business. Our monthly income is about Rs.12,000 (A$218) – before it was just Rs.2,500 (A$45). Business has increased and we can afford so much more for our children.

7. Knowledge-Seeker: They constantly hunt down information that will help them keep the business growing.

Agnes, a youth apprentice from Ghana, knows training will keep her in good stead for the future:

I make decisions with more awareness now… The business workshops are helpful for my future because I want to set up my own small business.

8. Promoter: They do the best job as spokesperson for the business.

Norlina, from Indonesia, knows timing is everything to attract customers:

I usually get up at 4am to prepare meals and start the kiosk. If I open the business early I can get more customers.

9. Relationship-Builder: They have high social intelligence and an ability to build relationships that aid their firm’s growth.

Anita, from India, understands the importance of supporting other women in her community:

I am happy that I am now independent and I want to employ more women to make a living for themselves. I advise all women to hold each others hands and help themselves and grow.

10. Risk-Taker: They have good instincts when it comes to managing high-risk situations.

Sunita, from India, demonstrated courage when her business suffered a setback a few years ago. She used a loan of $171 to purchase some pigs, hoping to raise them and use the money from their sale to provide for her children. But not long after she bought them, her pigs were stolen. Local police would only help if she would pay a bribe that she could not afford. Bravely, Sunita started again, applying for another loan. With the money, she purchased more pigs and began to breed them at a small farm outside of Delhi. Today, Sunita’s farm has more than 60 pigs. The income she has made from her business has meant she has been able to provide proper meals for her family, and even send her children to school.