From Groundnuts to Gala: A Journey of Entrepreneurial Resilience

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Hi everyone, it's been a while.
This week's prompt got me going all the way back to my secondary school. First I will start with the side hustle I ventured into that didn't work out for me.
My first ever side hustle was in my secondary school.
During my junior secondary school days, I ventured into my first-ever side hustle: selling groundnuts. The idea struck me in JSS2, and initially, it showed promise. I garnered decent sales among my classmates, enjoying a steady stream of income. However, the tide turned when I began selling to senior students (not like I had a choice, i was pressured,forced and intimidated into selling for them on credit). Out of the twenty or so seniors I sold to, only a two who actually paid up. This experience hit me like a ton of bricks. While some might dismiss it as a mere side gig, it deeply affected me. It shattered my confidence and left me feeling utterly insecure. The once-helpful and trusting Joshua known by many transformed into someone who found it hard to believe in others, I was no longer the guy who lent things to people again. This setback lingered, casting a shadow over my entrepreneurial ambitions.

Despite the setback, I resolved to give it another shot during my senior secondary school year (SS3), this time with sausage rolls (gala). Surprisingly, this venture turned out to be a resounding success. Being in the senior class meant there were no seniors to intimidate or pressure me into unpaid transactions. Implementing a strict cash-only policy (we called it cash and carry), I learned from my past mistakes and ensured that all transactions operated on a cash-and-carry basis. This policy shielded me from the losses I previously faced.

The success of my second venture not only brought in income but also served as a much-needed confidence booster. It taught me a valuable lesson: every venture carries risks, and giving up after a setback isn't the solution. Instead, it's about learning from mistakes, making necessary adjustments, and persevering. This experience significantly bolstered my self-assurance, demonstrating that resilience and adaptability are key traits in the world of business.

Reflecting on my journey, I came to understand that failures are not the end but rather stepping stones to success. They provide invaluable lessons that shape us into more resilient and determined individuals. My journey from a failed groundnut business to a successful sausage roll venture taught me the importance of perseverance, resilience, and learning from setbacks. These lessons continue to guide me as I navigate through life's challenges and pursue my entrepreneurial dreams.

As I look ahead, I am excited to apply these lessons in new ventures and endeavors. Armed with the knowledge gained from my past experiences, I am more confident in my ability to overcome obstacles and achieve success. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs, but it is also incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the lessons learned and the growth experienced along the way. With determination and perseverance, I am ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way and turn them into opportunities for growth and success.

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