Starting an Online Business at 24: An Unfiltered Journey
When you’re 24 and diving headfirst into the world of online business, one thing becomes glaringly clear: it’s hard. No sugarcoating, no glossy veneer—just raw, unvarnished truth. But here's the catch: if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. And that's what makes the journey so uniquely rewarding.
I didn’t go to school for a business degree before starting my clothing and accessories boutique, Coffee & Fashion Co. My journey into entrepreneurship was fueled by a deep love for fashion and a willingness to learn through trial and error. It wasn’t about academic credentials or having everything figured out from the start; it was about passion, persistence, and figuring things out as I went along.
I didn’t grow up in a rich family, nor did I have a network of mentors or a cushion of financial security. My background wasn’t marked by privilege or a legacy of entrepreneurial success. Instead, it was marked by determination and a relentless drive to forge my own path.
The Reality Check
Starting out, the landscape felt like a vast, uncharted territory. The hours were long, and the road was often paved with obstacles. There were days when it seemed like every challenge was a new mountain to climb, from mastering digital marketing to grappling with cash flow issues. The learning curve was steep, and the mistakes were plenty.
Financial struggles? Absolutely. Balancing a tight budget while trying to invest in growth was a tightrope walk. There were nights spent crunching numbers and days where every setback felt like a personal failure. I’ve cried, felt like I was failing, and all alone with no support. I’ve faced some of my darkest moments, questioning if it was all worth it.
The Drive to Succeed
So, what kept me going? It’s the simple fact that when you really want something, you go after it with everything you’ve got. It’s the hunger to build something from scratch, to create value, and to see your vision come to life. Every small victory, every new customer, every piece of positive feedback was fuel for the fire.
When Cody Johnson said, “If you got a dream, chase it 'cause a dream won't chase you back,” I felt that deeply. Let people think you're cringey. Want to start a workout YouTube channel? Do it! Want to launch a podcast? Do it! Thinking about starting a company? Do it! The scariest thing isn’t the risk of failure or the possibility of judgment; it’s the regret of never trying because you were too afraid of what others might think.
Being scared of judgment from family, friends, or people from your hometown can paralyze you, but it’s even scarier to look back on your life and realize you let others rob you of the experiences and opportunities you were meant to have. The fear of judgment pales in comparison to the fear of missed chances and unrealized dreams.
The Joys and Triumphs
Amid the struggles, there have been moments of pure joy and satisfaction. The feeling I get when I see a like, share, or purchase—it’s incredible. Those small gestures of support mean the world to me. Since opening Coffee & Fashion Co in 2022, I’ve met some wonderful people and formed connections that have enriched my journey in ways I never expected.
In August of 2024, I’ve reached a new milestone: I’ve grown into a booth space at The Chic Society & Co. in Long Beach, MS. Knowing as little as I did when I was 24 and how I’ve grown into the wonderful businesswoman I am today at age 26 is such a rewarding feeling. It’s a testament to the progress made and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
Even now, at age 26, the journey hasn’t gotten easier; if anything, it’s become more complex as my online business has grown. But every challenge faced is a testament to the progress made. I hope that as I continue, the business will grow and evolve in ways I can’t yet foresee.
I believe that God has a plan for me, and every night I pray that He continues to guide me. This journey has been unlike anything I could have imagined, but I trust that it’s leading me somewhere meaningful.
The Lessons Learned
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Resilience is Key: The ability to bounce back from failure and keep pushing forward is invaluable. Every setback is a lesson in disguise, and learning from these experiences is what drives growth.
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Resourcefulness Matters: With limited resources, creativity becomes your best ally. Finding innovative solutions and making the most out of what you have is crucial.
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Building a Network: Even if you start with a small circle, connecting with like-minded individuals and seeking out mentors can provide guidance and support when you need it most.
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Stay Focused on the Goal: Amid the chaos, keeping your eyes on the end goal helps maintain motivation. Break down the big dream into manageable tasks and celebrate the small wins along the way.
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Self-Care is Important: Burnout is a real risk in the world of startups. Taking care of your mental and physical health ensures you have the energy and clarity to keep moving forward.
Final Thoughts
Starting an online business at 24 is undeniably challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you can embark upon. It’s a test of grit, perseverance, and passion. If you have the drive to push through the hard times and the vision to keep moving forward, the rewards—both personal and professional—can be immense.
So, if you’re thinking about taking the plunge, remember this: it won’t be easy, but if you’re willing to put in the work, embrace the challenges, and stay committed to your goals, you’ll find that the journey, while tough, is incredibly worthwhile. Chase your dreams with relentless determination, and don’t let fear or judgment hold you back from the life you’re meant to lead.
- Brittney Mauffray