One of the hidden virtues of entrepreneurship is constant hard work — being hands-on, practical, and grounded. A true entrepreneur often has dirty hands, stained with oil or dust, and a mind busy building, testing, and creating.
But why do I believe entrepreneurs are freer from the persona masks described by Carl Jung?
Society tends to build rigid molds for certain professions — doctors, lawyers, CEOs, even university professors. Over time, these molds become masks that distance people from their authentic selves. In Iran, especially among the educated class, this illusion is even stronger. The moment someone earns a degree, they often begin to drift away from who they truly are. A doctor must always act like a doctor; an actor must always appear kind and public-minded, even if deep down they are introverted and private.
Entrepreneurs, however, live differently. They constantly need creativity, escape their comfort zones, and sometimes start all over again. This constant resetting brings them back to themselves. They can’t hide behind the prestige of a degree or a fancy job title — if they do, they’re no longer entrepreneurs, just managers.
Entrepreneurship means living in uncertainty, facing risks, and watching your masks fall away one by one — until you meet your real self.
If you feel burdened by the masks of daily life, try a small entrepreneurial experience. It might help you live a little more freely and truthfully. Of course, it all depends on your tolerance for risk — so don’t jump recklessly.