Teenagers are probably my favorite type of an entrepreneur. Teenagers have a unique perspective on life and bring that into their companies. They don’t have a lot of preconceived ideas about how the business world operates, nor do they really care.
The teens I know started their business when they realized they could sell something. Once they learned Bill Gates started his first company at 14, they thought they could too. If you’ve got the idea of starting a company, it’s near impossible to give it up.
No matter what your age, when you first become an entrepreneur, the sky is the limit! You think very big! You follow your interests and see where the money can be made.
The time to be creative and adventurous is when you are first considering your business ideas. Play the “What If…?” game. “What if you …?” each time making it larger or more diverse. Keep a list, build off the good ideas.
Once you have a qualified idea, it’s time to learn some of the nitty gritty of start-ups. I found this reference written by Stuart Harris called Teenpreneur Teens Making Money
If you are over 21, we have to work extra hard at keeping that youthful ambition. I know it’s hard as you get more experienced. It is difficult not to get jaded. Don’t think back to the days when things were better. Look to the future with mind and eyes wide open.
To find the profit today, remove any negativity from your thinking and play the “What If…?” game. What if you added a few new products, or ran a promotion, or changed a supplier. Look at the various areas within your company and see what you could improve. I’m confident you can have more profit when you’re done. Kay Peck
13 December 2009, 11:10 am
I’m 16 and want to start a business. I like sports, what should I do next?