Originally Posted by Str8Hood
I own my own business. It is a Computer Repair store (check sig).
I started out when I was in high school, fixing computers for friends & family. When I went to college, I became the resident "computer repair guy". After I dropped out of school (smh), I got a job at Best Buy. The purpose was primarily to learn how to run a business. Started off as a Part-Time employee and worked my way up to manager in about 18 months. I learned as much as I could while there in all facets of the business. Their successes, I built on. Their failures, I turned into successes for myself.
I quit Best Buy about 3 years ago to start my own business. I left a 75k + a year position to pursue the possibility of financial freedom. I started out doing house-calls via word-of-mouth. Built up a pretty big clientele within a few months. It was difficult travelling to everyone's home/business, so I decided to take the plunge and open a storefront. Things were slow at first, but I let all of my current clientele know about the storefront.
Over the past 3 years, I have been able to successfully run this business by myself. I generally work 12-16 hour days. It has not been easy, but it has been fun. Being an entrepreneur was always my dream. I am living that dream. It feels great.
We have made a little over $500,000 over the past 2 years. I am now looking for employees as well as scouting locations to open up more stores. I'm looking forward to the potential.
I must note that the business was only successful because of the blood, sweat, and tears I put into it. I am passionate about my company and I refuse to fail.
Sidenote: it cost me approx. $5000 out of pocket to open the business. The business has been self-sufficient since then. I have not spent another penny of my own money. Also, keep in mind that computers have gone from a luxury/pastime to a necessity. It is something you need to factor into your gameplan. People can live without luxury cars, possibly even haircuts. However, people CANNOT and WILL NOT live without their computers or the use of them.
Good luck in your future endeavors. Feel free to PM me if you have any more specific questions.
I wish you success!
