Being a Real Urban Entrepreneur: The Ups, Downs, and Raw Truths of 2024
The Glamour We See, the Reality We Live
You’ve seen the jewels, the cars, the cash, the YouTube plaques, the flashy content – the symbols of success. And let’s be real, that’s exactly what many entrepreneurs want you to see.
But behind that curated highlight reel is the real grind: the sleepless nights, the missed opportunities, the setbacks that social media won’t show you.
The Truth About Following Success Stories
Sure, you’ve heard the motivational speeches and read the books. You’ve taken notes from successful people sharing their “foolproof” paths to glory. But here’s the reality: you can’t replicate someone else’s exact journey.
Yes, we study and learn.
Yes, we apply the knowledge.
Yes, we work hard.
But life – your life – has its own bumps.
When Life Hits Hard
For some of us, life comes swinging, and suddenly, that carefully crafted plan doesn’t work anymore:
• You might hit a financial crisis and feel like starting over.
• You might lose motivation when results don’t come as fast as expected.
• You might feel the crushing weight of lack of support.
Support is one of the biggest hurdles. Whether it’s emotional, financial, or just someone cheering you on, the absence of it hits hard.
But here’s the thing about real entrepreneurs: we start again, or we push harder.
There’s something in us that refuses to let go of the dream, no matter how hard it gets.
From Poverty to Progress: My Story
Coming from the streets and navigating poverty isn’t easy. Even now, I’m rebuilding while dealing with rising food costs and life’s demands. Sometimes, it feels like I’m giving my all just to see the bare minimum in return.
But let’s get one thing straight: we are not doing the bare minimum.
We’re hustling harder, but sometimes, we make choices we regret:
• Selling the PlayStation 5 to get through a hard time, only to waste the money.
• Prioritizing fleeting comforts over investments.
• Getting stuck in the cycle of starting and stopping.
Stop Caring About the Small Minds
Another thing I’ve learned: stop caring about what people think.
Whether you’re in the early stages of your growth or enjoying a bit of success, someone is always going to have something to say.
Ladies, keep stacking your money from those hair appointments.
Fellas, I know it’s tough out here, but keep pushing.
It’s not about proving anyone wrong; it’s about proving yourself right.
My Journey: From $100K to Starting Over
Here’s a glimpse into my journey: I legally started a business at 30, made over $100,000, and lost it all. Now, I’m in the trenches rebuilding, adapting, and holding on to the one thing that matters most: CONSISTENCY.
Because if we’re not consistent, what’s the point?
Take this advice, and if you find success, feel free to remind me of this when you make it.
Welcome to the Hustle
This is what entrepreneurship in 2024 looks like for urban dreamers like us: the grind, the setbacks, the wins, and the resilience.
This article was written by Promise, Co-SEO Specialist for CoInvest Medium, a platform merging culture with technology.
If this resonated with you, comment, like, and share. I’ve got more stories to tell, and trust me – you won’t want to miss them.
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