The Beginning of an Entrepreneurial Journey
Back in university, I was just trying to keep up—attending lectures, scrambling through assignments, and picking up part-time gigs for pocket money. But beneath that typical student routine, I had something different brewing: a dream that went way beyond just getting a job. I didn’t want to wait till 40 to make my mark. I wanted to build something of my own—and fast.
This isn’t just a story of business strategies and startup plans. It’s the real, unfiltered journey of how I went from late-night study sessions to boardroom decisions—becoming a CEO before hitting 30.
Why Start Young?
Starting young is risky—but it’s also powerful. When you’re in your 20s, you’ve got one unbeatable resource: time. You can mess up, learn fast, pivot quickly, and try again without the burden of major life responsibilities.
I failed more times than I can count. But each failure taught me something that no classroom ever could. I tried everything—from freelance gigs to tech platforms. Most didn’t work. A few did. But every attempt sharpened my instincts.
If you’re young and thinking about starting a business, here’s my blunt advice: Don’t wait. Don’t overthink. Use what you already have—your time, your ideas, and your willingness to try.
Also Read: How Living Near Water Enhances Mental Wellness: The Lakeshore Advantage
Student Entrepreneurship Tips That Worked for Me
Use What’s Free: Your university offers more than just classes. I leaned on startup incubators, joined entrepreneurship clubs, and attended every mentorship event I could find. They gave me direction without costing a dime.
Find Your Crew: My early co-founders were friends from campus. We were all broke, hungry, and determined. That shared mindset made the hustle worth it.
Get Real Feedback: Don’t cling to your idea like it’s gold. I constantly asked for feedback and changed direction when needed. Speed matters more than perfection in the early days.
Look Bigger Than You Are: Even when my business was just a laptop in a dorm room, I built a brand—clean design, solid messaging, and a social presence that made us look professional.
These weren’t just growth hacks. They were survival strategies that helped me navigate the chaos.
Lakeshore City – A Dream That Reflects Ambition
One of my proudest ventures is Lakeshore City—a project that’s more than just a piece of real estate. It’s a vision brought to life.
I wanted to create something bold, modern, and meaningful for Pakistan. A space that combines innovation, sustainability, and upscale living. Lakeshore City wasn’t about selling property—it was about setting a new standard.
For me, it became the ultimate proof that age is not a barrier. If you have a clear vision and relentless execution, even the most ambitious projects are within reach.
Lessons on Becoming a CEO in Your 20s
Being a CEO in your 20s is intense. You’re leading people older than you, making high-stakes calls, and learning to manage chaos with calm. Here’s what helped me stay sane and strong:
- Mentors Keep You Grounded: I surrounded myself with people who weren’t afraid to question me. Their insights helped me avoid costly mistakes.
- Never Stop Learning: Podcasts, books, real-world conversations—I soaked up everything. Curiosity has been my secret weapon.
- Hire for Character: Skills can be taught. Attitude and integrity can’t. I built teams that believed in the mission and grew with it.
It’s not just about the title. It’s about stepping up when things get tough and leading with purpose.
Final Thoughts: Your Time is Now
If you’re dreaming of building your own business, there’s no better time than right now. Whether you’re still in school or just getting started in your career, the age on your ID doesn’t matter. What matters is your mindset.
Don’t wait for the stars to align. Start something small. Make mistakes. Learn from them. And keep going.
The future doesn’t belong to the lucky—it belongs to the bold.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need a lot of money to start?
A: No. Start with what you have. Many businesses begin with time and skills, not capital.
Q2: What if I fail?
A: You will. But that’s how you learn. Every failure is a step forward.
Q3: Should I quit school to start a business?
A: Not necessarily. Use your time in school wisely—it’s a great testing ground.
Q4: How do I find the right co-founder?
A: Look for people who share your vision and work ethic. University is a great place to start.
Q5: Is building a brand really that important early on?
A: Absolutely. Perception matters. A strong brand makes your small startup look credible.
Q6: How do I stay motivated during tough times?
A: Remember your “why” and surround yourself with people who lift you up.