Business startup – I used my running shoes

Asics Gel Kayanto

I am concerned when I hear of entrepreneurs who put a business startup plan together and then approach a bank for a large loan. It’s the mindset that worries me . . . .

• This approach places a gatekeeper on your plans that you have little control over.
• This loan has to be paid back. This is an overhead that a new business cannot afford (profit should be used for expansion and enhancement)

When I was a high school student I was involved in every activity. These activities started before school and went into the evenings. Like the entrepreneur, I approached the ‘bank’, (my parents) for a solution i.e. a scooter at the very least.

The next day they presented me with a box i.e. a pair of running shoes. I was flabbergasted but they explained the elegance of the solution i.e. my school life was my domain and I needed to be in control. No petrol needed – my passion would make it work; the running shoes were merely a tool. It came with a zero overhead as I did not need a license, helmet or riding jacket. The running shoes were multi-purpose because running to a debating evening ensured that I was fit for the sporting events.

Look around you. Use an available elegant solution that is multi-purpose – that is inexpensive and ensures that you grow as a person; a solution that can be driven by your passion and a solution that is inherently sustainable unlike an expensive monthly repayment.