It’s been an interesting observation during my latest trip to Turkey. During stays in Antalya. Izmir and Istanbul. I noticed for the first time just how many Turkish acquaintances, old and new, suggested they’d like to “make a project” with me. It’s something I hadn’t particularly noticed on previous visits. English teaching acquaintances – “let’s start a language school”. Project management acquaintances – “’let’s start a PM consulting business”. Owners of English Language schools – “Once you’ve started teaching here, I’ve got an idea for a building materials export business”. None of these random ideas were ever followed through or developed into serious proposals. But it’s got me wondering – what’s the motivation behind this initial enthusiasm? Has this entrepreneurial spirit always been part of the everyday Turkish psyche? Is it a reflection of the current economic and social conditions – a burning desire to improve status quo by embracing entrepreneurial risk? Or is it a belief that anything associated with the West (me) might bring the Midas touch? It’s also curious, how quickly these ideas dissipated, even when I showed genuine interest in the concept. Almost like discussing the weather, politics, the football score…and then getting back to the reality of everyday life. Were any of them serious? I’ve no idea. Very curious.