Starting My First Business at 11 Taught Me These 4 Lifelong Business Lessons
Joseph Wilder
I monetize attention online and leverage emotional intelligence for high performing married men. Contributor @ Entrepreneur
When I was 11, I lived with my grandma in Orange County, California. We had basic food and supplies — but not much extra. I wanted stickers for my skateboard binder but couldn't afford them.
So, I asked my grandma for sticker paper, and she said yes. She knew I needed to be creative. I printed my own stickers and felt proud when I added them to my binder. At school, my friends liked my custom stickers.
I then started selling them for $5 for two, while a local skate shop sold theirs for $5 each. I'll never forget the first time someone paid me for something I created — it opened my eyes to what is possible when you start a business.
This simple idea grew into something bigger. I began selling clothes and skateboard decks, too. I created a website using Yahoo Site Builder. My site showed my products and helped me connect with customers. It also had a blog where we shared about skate meetups, giveaways and film sessions. Back then, social media was easier to use; it was basically non-existent compared to the present day.
All of that to say, this journey taught me resilience and showed me how to be an entrepreneur while being creative. I faced several challenges, but I learned a lot from my side hustle, and the business growth was exciting to witness.
When I think about being a young entrepreneur, I remember the lessons that made me strong and motivated. I started my sticker company when I was just 11 years old. I didn't know then that this would spark my love for business. It also taught me skills that would help me later on.
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Many people don't see how these early experiences are key to success and personal growth. I spent many sleepless nights making and packing stickers. Those times showed me how hard work and dedication can matter. In high school, I carried on with my sticker business. I felt like a seasoned business owner because I faced many challenges.
Here are four key lessons I learned from starting my first business at a young age. These lessons have helped me build a successful business.
1. Build a good name
Build a strong reputation by being fair and respecting others. This is important, even when you feel unsure. Avoid choices that could harm your good name or honesty. Remember your humble beginnings and what you faced in your first year of business.
Let your actions show your true character, and keep your name clean. Always try to do what is right, especially when tough times make you doubt yourself. Instead of chasing fame or money, focus on doing good work and making choices that reflect your values. The best part of your journey will be the personal growth you gain along the way. Keep a kind heart and be ready to work hard. Do this not just for your own dreams but also to help your loved ones reach theirs in the future.