Let me brief you about this experience I had with my Uncle. We fondly called him Uncle Tatah. 

Uncle Tatah was a character, diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder, yet full of life. His visits were always memorable, particularly one in 1998 when he demonstrated an act of audacity that left a lasting impression for me. He frequently made visits due to his close bond with my mother.

One morning, around 3 AM, he proposed an unexpected adventure: to go to the neary forest and get firewood and fetch water from the stream. Overwhelmed with fear, I hesitated, but Uncle Tatah, undaunted by the darkness, proceeded alone. By sunrise, he had single-handedly accomplished the mission, simplifying our morning chores.

Growing up in the village, there is nothing in this world that will push me to the forest or stream in the night to look for anything. What would I be looking for in the nearby forest and stream at night? Absolutely nothing ooh! 

Entrepreneurship is often seen as a venture for the audaciously daring—individuals who possess an extraordinary zeal and courage. This brings to mind my late Uncle Tatah, whose spirit and fearlessness now inspire reflections on the essence of entrepreneurship. May his soul rest in peace.

This incident, upon reflection, led me to an epiphany about entrepreneurship: it is not for the faint-hearted. Uncle Tatah embodied the essence of what it means to be an entrepreneur—fearless, bold, and always ready to confront challenges head-on. Even within the family, he was known for his directness and courage, never hesitating to address issues or confront someone when necessary.

Uncle Tatah's actions in the dead of night, achieving what I could not dare even though it was my responsibility to make sure water and firewood is always at home, exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit. 

While others slept, he ventured out and succeeded, teaching us that entrepreneurship demands a blend of fearlessness, determination, and the willingness to take the road less traveled.

From Uncle Tatah's life and his approach to challenges, entrepreneurs can draw three key lessons:

- Boldness is Essential: To embark on entrepreneurial ventures, one must possess the courage to face fears and uncertainties. The willingness to step into the unknown, much like venturing into the forest at night, is what sets successful entrepreneurs apart.

- Action Overcomes Fear: Fearlessness is not the absence of fear but the determination to act despite it. Uncle Tatah's readiness to fulfill tasks that others shied away from highlights the importance of action in overcoming obstacles.

- The Value of Initiative: Success often comes to those who are willing to take the initiative while others hesitate. Uncle Tatah's proactive approach—accomplishing tasks while others slept—underscores the significance of seizing opportunities and making the most of one's time.

Entrepreneurship, much like Uncle Tatah's ventures into the night, is a journey for those who dare to defy the ordinary, confront their fears, and boldly step forward where others might hesitate.

Entrepreneurship is the game for 'mad' men and women. 

By Dr. Joybert Javnyuy

Keywords: Business Continuity, Business Strategy, Entrepreneurship