Six months ago I joined the legion of people who gave up on a salaried job to start following their own business dreams. Today I am taking some time to reflect on the past six months.

It's been hard, it's been fun, it's been stressful... It has been an emotional rollercoaster, but above all it has been rewarding. I am not saying this is the road for everyone, but if you are sitting on the fence my advice is to jump and have a go at doing your own business thing.

Apparently most people only realize what they want from life AND are willing to make the changes necessary when they hit 40. I am glad I have started making those changes earlier. Here are some tips for my fellow ( South African) entrepreneurs.

Save money while you can. In South Africa there is limited funding available for start-ups. I opened a bank account with one of the 4 big banks in SA. They loved me. Well that was till I asked them for money to start my business. They are not willing to loan any money to start-ups in their first year of trading?!?! It doesn't matter if you have a great business plan and years of experience in the sector you are starting. It doesn't even matter if you have signed off take agreements. Banks in South Africa are lame!

I am however sure that when - if - I am successful in the future they will all want my business... Oh well...
So either find friends, family or angel investors to join your cause.
My advice is to go to SEDA. They will help you a little bit with advertising and a business plan if you need one. SEDA, like most government agencies, will take time - patience is needed. So if you are thinking about ever doing your own business forget fancy cars and a big house. Instead start saving money wherever and whenever you can.



So my second tip is: Invest in people! While I was working in my previous job I always did my utmost best to be kind and friendly to clients and suppliers. This has paid off in good working relationships for my start-up, but also so much more.
- One of my suppliers is giving me everything at cost so I can save money. He is also lending me his equipment so I don't have to buy all the machinery right now.
- I helped a friend who needed a space to start his business. In exchange he has decided to partner with me in this business. So one start-up has turned into two.
- The biggest client I got during my previous job decided to rather join me than stay with my previous work.
- A friend introduced me to one of his friends who might be able to help me finance part of my growth.

Thank you for reading this. I hope to write another update in 6 months time celebrating one year in business.


Till then: Enjoy your business adventures!

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