Taking the Plunge: Should I Start My Own Barber Shop at 18?
As I stand on the cusp of adulthood, I’ve found myself reflecting on a significant decision: should I take the leap and launch my own barbering business? Let me give you a bit of background.
Since the age of 13, I’ve dedicated myself to becoming a skilled barber, working an impressive 45 hours each week. During those early years, I provided numerous free haircuts to hone my craft. By the time I turned 15, I began an apprenticeship that surprised many with the level of skill I had already developed. With guidance, I managed to correct several bad habits and, by 16, I was proudly licensed to barber.
What’s remarkable is that I have balanced this bustling work routine alongside my high school studies by opting out of advanced classes, allowing me to focus on my passion during school hours. Now, at just 18 years old, I am a high school graduate with five years of hands-on experience and two years’ worth of savings amounting to $80,000.
My father believes I am well-positioned to embark on this entrepreneurial journey, especially since I can still stay with him for support while I get my shop off the ground. I have built a robust client base within my local Muslim community, keeping my schedule fully booked about two weeks in advance. This indicates that I have a solid demand for my services and likely won’t struggle to attract customers.
Despite these promising factors, I grapple with uncertainty. Is 18 too young to dive into such a significant commitment? Should I continue gaining experience at my current shop and increase my hours to save even more money before I take on the responsibility of running a business?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have any of you faced a similar crossroads? When is the right time to turn a passion into a profession, and what considerations should I weigh before making such a substantial decision? Let’s discuss this journey together.
Feel free to leave your insights and advice in the comments!
