Personal Struggles and Starting a New Journey
Starting a business or nonprofit is rarely a smooth road. What doesn’t get talked about enough is the fact that many entrepreneurs begin their journey from a place of hardship. Did you know that most founders grew up poor, disabled, abused, or otherwise facing challenges that left them with very few options? Instead of giving up, they made a way forward and that resilience became the foundation of their success.
One story that has always inspired me is about a man known as Mr. Jeans. He grew up in India as an “untouchable,” with no status, no wealth, and seemingly no opportunity. However, he had a dream. He noticed that business leaders always carried briefcases, so that was his first step and he got one. Then he got a sign. From there, he slowly built his business. It wasn’t overnight. It took years of persistence, yet he eventually became the largest importer and exporter of jeans. When a storm at sea destroyed many of his shipments, nearly bankrupting him, he found a way to recover. He stuck with what he knew best, and his determination carried him through.
The Entrepreneurial Struggle
If you talk with business owners, nonprofit leaders, or startup founders, you’ll hear similar stories. Many have been through divorce, eviction, homelessness, hunger, abuse, or lack of education. Yet they all shared something in common: the drive to rise above adversity. When others might give up, they created a plan. They allowed themselves to grieve, cry, or vent, but then they strategized and took action.
This is the true spirit of entrepreneurship. It’s not just about profit margins or “hustle culture.” It’s about building something that creates opportunity for others. Many founders choose to hire family members, friends, or people who also need a hand up, not a handout. They understand that sympathy without support is empty. Real impact comes from empowering others.
My Personal Journey
I’ve faced my own struggles along the way. I’ve had people doubt me, try to sabotage my efforts, talk badly about me, and gatekeep connections. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve also learned a powerful truth that God always has the final word. Even when I felt like giving up, faith as small as a mustard seed gave me strategy, networks, and determination to rise above the noise.
Through my journey, I’ve met incredible entrepreneurs, nonprofit founders, and leaders. Some are just starting out, frustrated by the lack of support. Others have built empires and now give back generously. The best advice I’ve ever received came from people who endured their own storms and wanted to see me succeed too.
Business Is Not About Competition
Here’s a secret: real business isn’t about competition, it’s about community. Yes, there will always be people who undermine you or try to undercut your bids. However, those who build sustainable businesses and nonprofits understand something deeper, success is about lifting others up.
Great leaders don’t just chase the bottom line. They build character within their organizations, train new talent, and support the personal and professional needs of their teams. They think about sustainability, impact, and legacy, not just profits.
Rising Above Adversity
The road to leadership is never straightforward, but it is worth it. Every entrepreneur starts somewhere. To succeed, you need tenacity, resilience, flexibility, and faith. Don’t ever believe the lie that you “can’t do it.” Often the biggest obstacle is your own mindset. If others discourage you, find people who will encourage and support you instead.
Life will throw curveballs, it always does, but your attitude and determination can outshine any setback. Remember, if God has placed a vision on your heart to start a business or nonprofit, He will equip you to make it grow.
Anything is possible with faith, perseverance, and the courage to begin your journey, even in the midst of personal struggles.
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