Choosing Business Over College: What I Wish I'd Known

At 15, while my peers were eager to secure part-time jobs at local cafés, I embarked on a different journey, motivated by my father to establish my own business early. This decision has played a pivotal role in achieving financial independence by 20.

Initially, I channeled my creative skills into crafting origami butterflies, a hobby refined during a school trip to Japan and enhanced during the COVID-19 lockdown.

At 16, I began selling these artworks at Melbourne markets. The moment a customer offered $100 for three of my pieces was eye-opening—proving I could monetize my craft.

Expanding my horizons, I ventured into jewelry, establishing Kiana Mei Designs, which featured both customizable jewelry and my origami creations.

Balancing academics and weekend market sales, I completed high school with distinction, eligible for numerous college programs. Despite this, I opted to fully invest in my business for a year instead of attending college.

I reasoned, 'Why study business in theory when I'm living it in reality?' Now operating a stall at Queen Victoria Market from Tuesday through Sunday, I've also achieved independence, having left my family home. Here are key lessons from my entrepreneurial path.

1. Embracing Solitude

The solitude that accompanied my decision to start a business was unexpected. During school, I was surrounded by friends with shared scholastic pursuits.

Post-high school and moving out, those bonds frayed, as our lives took separate paths. Few young entrepreneurs, particularly women, are prevalent in Melbourne, making it challenging to find relatable connections at networking events dominated by older individuals.

2. Prioritizing Well-being

Looking back, I wish I had mastered the art of balancing work and downtime sooner. Last Christmas exemplified this imbalance with a grueling 14-day streak of operating my stall without respite.

The physical demands are significant; days spent on my feet led to health setbacks, like losing my voice for five days in August, which also meant pausing my work.

Maintaining health is paramount, so I've committed to early morning workouts and nutritious breakfasts, adhering to a strict bedtime routine to sustain my energy for market days.

3. Accepting Product Limitations

An essential lesson was understanding that my offerings would not appeal to all. Early rejections, when passersby ignored my stall, felt personal.

Initially, I overanalyzed these interactions until realizing that retail entails finding a niche audience.

Now, I focus on engaging with those who show genuine interest, without dwelling on others' indifference, confidently moving on to the next potential customer.