There are few things more interesting than watching a passionate entrepreneur talk about their “baby”: their million-dollar, revolutionary, or world-changing idea. It’s amazing listening to how deep their ideas go, and how much they’ve put into it. There’s no aptitude or drive that can take the place of a passion.

I used to be a person that was very money-driven. I chased dollars. I had visions of the relentless lone wolf entrepreneur who watched every dollar and took advantage of every opportunity until he found himself at the top. Through my experiences, and the experiences and teachings of others, I’ve gradually fallen in love with the idea of a more wholesome, human entrepreneur. One who, above all, seeks to help people. Making money has become less and less important to me, while changing the world and making an impact has become more prevalent in my thoughts.

After I made this switch, I’ve found myself more efficient and happier. I follow my heart, and the gains are way greater than a paycheck. I’m still as relentless as my former ideal entrepreneur, yet when I focus on helping people, my returns on the investment of my time are way greater. It’s a mutual benefit between me and the people I help. I also know in my heart that I’ll make it farther in life this way.

For the 2009 Miss Kappa Alpha Psi pageant of the Epsilon Beta chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi (Fayetteville State University).