Having been on vacation from work for the last week and a half – yes, I know you are surprised to learn that this blog is not my full-time job! – I’ve had time to reflect about ideas, and the things you learn through the process of being an entrepreneur. I am starting business school this fall, and I am excited about all of the new things I will be learning!

In light of this, I thought it would be appropriate to capture the five overarching themes from the inspiring entrepreneurs and minds I have featured for their Idea Stories.

Here it is, the “SPARC” for entrepreneurship and turning your ideas into reality!

Steadfastness. Be persistent and stick with your vision. You have to trust yourself.

People. The right team is essential to your success. Pick wisely!

Action. Start now. There will never be a “right time” for your startup, so just take the plunge.

Risk. Be comfortable with it. Face it and embrace it. But make it calculated.

Care. You must be passionate about your idea. You’ll need it to survive the rough patches.

What is your SPARC?

And I’d like to try something new this week!

I have a signed copy of The $100 Startup, by Chris Guillebeau, that I’m giving away. The book has tons of useful tips about how to start your business, interesting case studies, and inspirational stories. So, tell me in the comment section below: What is your idea? And why do you love it?

At the end of two weeks (September 6) I’ll pick my favorite comment, and send that person the book! Hopefully you’ll put it to good use, and in a couple of months, I’ll be interviewing you about your Idea Story.