Advice to Teenage and Young Entrepreneurs

This was quite interesting to read in a recent article in the Guardian:

“The number of #teenagers setting up #businesses has increased eightfold in the past decade, a study has found. The rise from 500 in 2009 to more than 4,000 has been driven by technology startups, according to the Brighton-based financial services provider OneFamily, which commissioned the research."

It doesn't surprise me at all - in fact I can imagine the next decade will see this number only increase, given how easy it has become to start a business versus perhaps, 20 years ago. Also it is currently very on trend, considered a glamorous field to enter and promoted heavily by many-an-Instagram or YouTube influencer. When you compare that with the extortionate fees that universities are still charging, it's no wonder youngsters are turning to business over the more traditional industries. After all who'd rather be in debt after 3 years when you could be making a decent amount?

Having said that - nothing is as easy as it looks - and my advice to my young brothers and sisters wanting to join the entrepreneurial revolution would be as follows;

1) Expect failure. Don't worry. Go again.

2) Don't spread yourself too thin. Focus.

3) Get a mentor. It will speed up your progress.

4) Follow a proven programme, course or system to learn the foundations and get early success. Never shy away from investing in yourself.

5) Always keep learning. Read books and watch good content.

6) Make every moment count - don't waste time, thinking you have a lot of it. Feel free to do some voluntary work in your spare time to pick up some extra skills or do a sport or extra curricular activity. It will keep you balanced.

7) What you do today may not be what you end up doing in ten years. That's fine. Just give everything you have to what you're currently doing, knowing that it is all an iterative process. ??

Most importantly, remember that nothing will happen without Allah's will. So recognise the importance of barakah to your business and hone that spiritual side! If any young person reading this wants advice or even suggestions for number 4 on the list, just feel free to direct message me and I'll get back to you insha'allah.