[dropcap]F[/dropcap]rom time immemorial, starting a business has always been a monumental task. It is not for the fainthearted nor is it for those who aren’t dogged. And this won’t change anytime soon.
Regardless, you will find Nigerians who are dogged and who have the entrepreneurial tenacity or spirit running from pillar to post searching for jobs. Besides, even those who have jobs are no better. They always have an excuse for not starting a business on their own. Here are some of these pretty inexcusable excuses.
I don’t have enough money
A very convenient excuse for anyone who is not ready to start up. Money will always be a problem and in this economic recession, there is no guarantee that there will be steady cash flow. But you know that most successful businesses started small. You have your friends and family who can support. In fact, you can crowdsource funds online to start up.
I don’t want anyone to steal my idea
There is nothing new under the sun. Someone else is already doing what you do. What you can do on your part is to inject a unique and distinctive way of doing same which will make you stand out. So why are you keeping your ideas to yourself? It doesn’t mean you should tell every tom, dick and harry. Anyhow, you want to do, just get your idea out there and start even if you are afraid someone will steal your idea.
I don’t have enough time
Stop spending available time watching movies, African magic and surfing the internet if you are serious about starting a business. Dedicating this time to improving and positioning your business plan. You need to learn how to manage your time. Time will never be enough. Dangote had the same 24 hours when he started. It won’t be easy, though.
I don’t have enough knowledge about the business
The internet has made it very easy for you to learn anything you want. There are YouTube videos and you can Google any idea. There are also many free online courses you can take on any subject. This is really no longer an excuse but you will be surprised that Nigerians still give.
This recession is not good to start a business
There is never a good time to start a business. Whether Nigeria is in a recession or not, you will be blown away by the sheer number of startups that have been launched despite the recession. Life is all about risk. If you don’t venture into it now, and the recession is over, another lame excuse will arise to stall your plan to start up.
My plan is not perfect
According to research, the best formula for starting a new business is to launch, test and pivot. With this mindset, you should be aware that nothing can be perfect. You can only do your best. So, don’t wait for your plan to be 100% before you get off. Remember starting a business is not a 100 metres race, it’s a marathon!
Adeniyi Ogunfowoke is a PR associate with Jumia Travels.
