Ten years ago, I started my business.
I have seen lots of good times, and moments when we came very close to shutting it down.
Somehow, it is still running today, and I am quite proud to have survived 10 years.
Looking back, there are a few learnings I would tell my younger self.
Most startup stories focus on heroism and legendary success. That is fine—it inspires people.
But the lessons that help you through the day-to-day reality of running a business are talked about much less.
================================================================
Why do most people start a business?
The most common reasons are: be your own boss, make a lot of money, change the world. These are all true—but only partially.
While, you do become your own boss, you’re also accountable to your team, your customers, your suppliers, the government & more. It is a tiring responsibility that never switches off.
Yes, business is probably one of the best ways to make big money—say ₹100 crore. But the probability of actually getting there is incredibly small. The downside is that you could end up with nothing, or even heavy debt.
In fact, the money I made in just three years of my startup job is multiple times more than what I’ve made in ten years of running my own business.
If your goal is simply to become financially comfortable, a good career probably offers much better odds—with far greater emotional stability.
================================================================
When does business become easy?
The answer is: never.
The problems change. In your first year you’re worried about getting customers. A few years later you worry about hiring, cash flow, taxes or competition. The problems are different, but the mental load feels surprisingly similar.
It’s like life. First it’s board exams. Then college. Then your first job. The goalpost keeps moving. Business is no different.
The lesson is simple: don’t wait for the business to become stable before you start living. Make time for your life from Day 1. Business has to fit into your life. It doesn’t replace it.
================================================================
One big positive that I never anticipated — the people.
Not every customer is right for you. Not every team member is a good fit. Not every supplier is dependable.
But the few who are right for your business make it worthwhile. They trust you. They help you in ways you never expect. This motivates you do better every day. For yourself & for them.
Profit and money are indespensable. But these relationships add something money alone cannot. They make the work enjoyable—or on difficult days, at least meaningful.
================================================================
Knowing what I know today, would I start a business again?
Yes. Absolutely.
The upsides of running a business, for me, are unbeatable. The combination of freedom, money and the sense of pride it offers is still something I’d choose over a job.
I would simply start with a much clearer understanding of what those privileges cost.
Leave a Reply