Quiz: What do you need for blazing your own trail?

As you blaze your own trail through wild business, do you have the right gear and approach? What are the essentials for survival off the beaten track? Traditional business tools don't suffice—Wildpreneurs may not need a business suit, briefcase or even an office. Wildpreneurship requires considerably different equipment and strategy.

My journey as a Wildpreneur began in a college class called “Entrepreneurship 101.” In Vermont’s Green Mountains, I wrote up the business plan for a jungle lodge. Though the class gave my business dream some much needed shape and direction, it didn’t adequately prepare me for the journey ahead.

More than a decade later, I’ve created my own version of that class. My book includes a special chapter called “Wildpreneurship 101” that is specifically designed for my fellow free-spirits. As a Wildpreneur, you’re embarking on an expedition; venturing into the wilds where uncertain terrain awaits. For example, consider what essentials you’ll want in your backpack? What is your top pick of the following?

A) Cast-iron frying pan

B) Machete

C) Hardcover novel

D) Bug spray

E) Duct tape

Wildpreneurs must carefully consider the functionality, practicality, efficiency, necessity, and simplicity of each item that they bring and use on their journey. Clearly, every adventurer may have different priorities and needs. My first choice from the list above? Duct tape. Mexico—the land of the quick—has taught me its multipurpose wonders. Machete and bug spray are close behind in utility. Heavy frying pan and hardcover novel? Ditch ’em. There are much smarter, less cumbersome alternatives. You’ll be cursing the burden of that extra weight a mile down the trail.

If you’re preparing yourself for a journey through the unknown, you’ll need the survival kit that I break down in Chapter 4: Wildpreneurs 101—Nuts and Bolts. This chapter covers a range of tips and tricks to add to your Wildpreneur tool kit/backpack, including: