Easy: The Youthful Edge in Business

The journey towards success is often littered with a plethora of well-meaning advice. I, like many, have read, absorbed, and in the last few years, disregarded much of it until a realization struck me — luck plays an undeniable role in our pursuit of success. But let’s not underestimate the significance of other factors: consistency, passion, and an unwavering drive. They are the cornerstones, essential in their own right. However, grasping onto or understanding advice from self-appointed gurus or captains of industries, no matter how diligently consumed, may not be the magic wand that transforms us into the next big thing. The true alchemy lies in diligent, adaptable hard work, coupled with a dash of fortuitous luck.

The undeniable truth is that humans possess an innate inclination towards convenience, and convenience breeds laziness. It’s a feeling that intensifies as we age, as life often becomes more complex, or at least that’s my perception. The inner child within me seems to struggle beneath the weight of adulthood’s stark realism, societal expectations, and the inexorable ticking clock of biology. To keep her spirit alive, I actively seek out activities that, as an adult, might seem peculiar but manage to bring her joy.

Reflecting on the day I graduated from university, brimming with hope and optimism about the future, I now see myself as a remarkably naive individual. That youthful arrogance facilitated my negotiation of a job that, looking back, was bliss. It afforded me the freedom to explore and grow, both financially and in terms of personal development. I had a boss who was supportive, inspiring, and had a balanced home life with happy children. I was living the dream, and I couldn’t see it. Four years into that job, I felt an insatiable hunger for something more substantial. A greater challenge, a sense of purpose that eluded definition. I couldn’t quite fathom how to achieve this growth, but one thing was glaringly clear: my current path felt far too comfortable. I needed more.

I look back at my former self now, completely bewildered by my previous ignorance. The age-old adage, “be careful what you wish for,” is now hauntingly relevant. I have worked in organizations that seem a far cry from my initial foray into the business world, where managers squeezed until I felt like a mere shell of who I was, and work felt like a chore. I am walking the path many take during their twenties in my thirties. Trying to understand myself as a boss, a businesswoman, and a person. Working in environments that afford no comfort or support for a greater goal and making decisions for the sake of how they will affect me emotionally rather than the allure of short-term rewards they afford.

My present reality involves a constant juggling act, attempting to manage the manifold intricacies of establishing a business in Spain, a terrain distinctly different from that of the UK while earning enough to survive; living is the next goal! The processes here are far from straightforward, and, unfortunately, entrepreneurship doesn’t seem to be celebrated as it should be. Self-employment even comes with the surreal obligation of paying a monthly fee to the government, irrespective of earnings. Taxes loom on a quarterly basis, and your clients seem to have a fixation with calling while chatting rapidly in Spanish, giving me little time to explain that although emails give me anxiety, they are by far the friendlier monster than the ringing phone.

For those embarking on the journey of starting a business in Spain (or abroad), here’s some quick advice:

1. Get Your Paperwork in Order: When you move to Spain, ensure you have the necessary documentation, like a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), and depending on your country of origin, possibly a VISA to work legally. The process can sometimes be lengthy, so get on it straight away.
2. Build Your Contacts and Network: Networking is vital. Establish connections within the local business community, as they can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Start absorbing and learning the language as it helps better understand the culture and the country.
3. Financial Preparedness: Entrepreneurship can be financially challenging. Be prepared for the initial financial strain. Have savings or an alternative income source to support your business until it becomes profitable.
4. Plan Diligently: Develop a solid business plan. This is also tied to financial readiness. Understand that the seemingly reasonable fees (a little over €80/month) can accumulate over the years. Ensure your business plan accounts for this. After a year, it will increase to €150/month, and the year after that, it will increase to €230/month.
5. Embrace Social Media: In today’s world, a strong online presence is a must. Even if it’s not your strength, invest time and effort into building and maintaining a presence on social media platforms. This is such a struggle for me, and I am still waiting to take my own advice — judge me not. I use social media as a memory bank; half the time, I forget to keep it updated, and the other half of the time, I watch memes.
6. Resilience is Key: Starting a business is tough, especially in a new country. Be prepared for challenges, and remember that you’re not alone. Seek support and keep pushing forward. Remember, in a world driven by instant gratification, cultivating patience can be a challenging endeavor.

In the end, starting a business in Spain, or anywhere for that matter, is a journey filled with both obstacles and opportunities. Embrace the adventure, stay adaptable, and keep learning along the way. Success will not come overnight, but with determination and the right strategy, it’s within reach.

Are you currently embarking on a business journey in a foreign country? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other.