I went to a Meetup last week where Christine Comaford spoke of many different things, primarily how to achieve a 7 figure income. It was a very inspiring talk. I had not yet begun to reach that far ahead in my dreams but now I feel I am! When I was sharing some of what was talked about with a friend, one thing became a point of argument. Christine started her talk asking, “How many of you want to help lots and lots of people?” Many people raised their hands - probably the majority of those sitting there. Then she asked, “And how many of you would like to make lots and lots of money while helping lots of people?” And of course hands were raised even higher!

The argument with my friend is that they think no entrepreneurs primary goal is to help people. And that it was a mistake for Christine to start her whole talk off with that question. This really got to me. Is the true definition of entrepreneur to make money and build business first, and helping people is a nice side effect? Have I (and apparently Christine and about 100 people in that room) got it all wrong?

What bothers me is that I would not be doing all of what I do if it weren’t for helping people! I live to help people! All of my life, from the very first dollar I made when I was a preteen babysitting, to being a dance teacher, then an elementary teacher, then leading a team in direct sales, and now my speaking/training business - is ALL about helping people! Sharing ideas, teaching, inspiring and serving are what I do best!! How could this be contradictory to what it means to be an entrepreneur?

Does anyone out there know what my friend might mean? We’ve agreed to disagree but I would be very curious if others have an opinion on this. Maybe I am not seeing something. Or maybe I am guilty of one of the 3 biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make - according to Christina - caring too much. I don’t think so since what I care about are the people, not the business. The people, not the numbers. Some of those people I help are my own children, my husband and yes, myself. But it isn’t about the money on a personal level, it’s about the freedom, security and flexibility I have that results from helping people get what they need.

I’m confused and would enjoy a discussion about this. What are your thoughts? Please comment.