Should I Take the Leap Into Entrepreneurship as a Young Barber?
As a passionate barber with an impressive journey, the question of whether to start my own business is weighing heavily on my mind. After dedicating 45 hours each week to my craft since I was just 13, I find myself at a crossroads now that I’ve graduated high school and turned 18.
My experience began with volunteer haircuts during my early teens, which eventually led to a formal apprenticeship at 15. To my surprise, my instructors were impressed by my innate skills, helping me refine my techniques and eliminate a few bad habits along the way. By 16, I obtained my barber’s license, which set the stage for my career.
Now, with five years of hands-on experience coupled with two years of financial savings, I am contemplating whether to dive into business ownership. My father encourages me, highlighting the fact that I have the option to live with him and that my savings of $80,000 position me well for this venture. Moreover, I have cultivated a substantial client base within my local Muslim community, often scheduled two weeks in advance, which assures me of a steady stream of customers.
Despite these promising indicators, I am still hesitant. Is this the right moment to embark on such a significant journey at my age? Should I continue building my skills and experience in the shop where I’ve worked for several years, perhaps even working more hours to gather additional funds before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship?
In the face of these considerations, it’s essential for me to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Starting a business is not only a financial commitment but also an emotional and logistical one.
The path ahead is uncertain, but with my strong foundation, community support, and a mindset for growth, the entrepreneurial spirit is undoubtedly calling me. What advice would you give to a young professional standing on the brink of owning their own business?
