This is what it feels like.

There’s been a lot of discussion regarding where entrepreneurs come from, how they acquire their skills and the nature of the drive that powers them. I believe there is a whole gamut of possibilities, with a place for all. That said, I believe in the core entrepreneur; the one driven from the day they were born to create and build.

Imagine you’re one of the fastest track runners among anyone you’ve ever met. You don’t set records, you’re a ways away from the Olympics, but every time you set foot on the track, you’re a force to be reckoned with.

Now imagine walking up to the starting block. A crowd of people in the stands, waiting and watching. Your competitors start to size you up as you do the same. Feel that adrenaline pumping through your veins? You’re given the sign to get set; your mind focuses on the track ahead. You carefully put your foot in position as every muscle in your body starts to charge with potential energy.

Now really imagine your mind and body at this very instant. The race car driver staring at the light tree, waiting for green, the student about to glimpse at a final exam, the boy who’s about to ask out the girl he’s crazy about. We’ve all had these moments. The world slows down, our hearts speed up, electricity starts to flow through our chest, and for a moment you’re nearly paralyzed with anticipation.

Take that feeling, that paralyzing sensation flowing through your body and multiply it times 10. Now imagine that sensation for every second, of every minute, of every hour, of every day. The insatiable drive to jump out of the gates with every ounce of your being. Anything less and you wouldn’t deserve your place at the starting line.

Some days, most days, this is my gift. Some days, those few days, it’s a curse. I’m sure there are many kinds of entrepreneurs; some who studied it, some who discovered and embraced it, and even those who fake it for potential riches. However, I can’t imagine anyone learning, let alone consciously embracing what I consider my entrepreneurial drive. You simply need to be born with it.

With my company, I spend every waking moment preparing to jump off the line. That line may be a meeting that needs to go perfectly, a design that has to snap, or a feature introduction that changes our future. Every moment of every day is another opportunity to go at with full force.

This is what it feels like to be an entrepreneur. I live my life as such, not just my business.