Is It Better to Learn a Skilled Trade or Start a Business in Nigeria?
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Once upon a time, in a small village in Nigeria, there lived Mama Ngozi, a hardworking woman known for selling the juiciest tomatoes in the market. Mama Ngozi had a son, Chinedu, who was eager to find a way to improve their family's financial situation. One day, Chinedu asked Mama Ngozi, "Mama, shouRead more
Once upon a time, in a small village in Nigeria, there lived Mama Ngozi, a hardworking woman known for selling the juiciest tomatoes in the market. Mama Ngozi had a son, Chinedu, who was eager to find a way to improve their family’s financial situation. One day, Chinedu asked Mama Ngozi, “Mama, should I learn a handwork or start a business to succeed?”
Mama Ngozi smiled and replied, “Ah, my dear Chinedu, to succeed in life, you must be ready to put in the work, whether you choose to learn a handwork or start a business. Both options have their own unique benefits and challenges.”
She continued, “If you decide to learn a handwork, such as tailoring, carpentry, or hairdressing, you will acquire a valuable skill that can provide you with a steady source of income. Just like how I skillfully select the best tomatoes to sell in the market, you will hone your craft and become known for your expertise. Remember, success in handiwork requires dedication, practice, and a commitment to always deliver quality.”
“On the other hand, if you choose to start a business, like opening a provision store, a food stall, or a small trading enterprise, you will have the opportunity to be your own boss and potentially earn higher profits. Just like how I manage my tomato business by keeping track of prices, expenses, and customer preferences, you will need to be organized, resourceful, and willing to take calculated risks.”
Mama Ngozi then shared a valuable piece of wisdom with Chinedu, saying, “No matter which path you choose, always remember the importance of financial education. Learn how to manage your money wisely, save for the future, and understand the value of investing. Just like how I carefully budget and save a portion of my earnings for rainy days, you must learn to make smart financial decisions to secure your future.”
In conclusion, Mama Ngozi advised Chinedu, “Whether you learn a handwork or start a business, success comes from hard work, determination, continuous learning, and smart financial planning. Embrace every opportunity to grow, be open to new ideas, and never be afraid to seek advice from those with more experience. Remember, with perseverance and the right mindset, you can achieve your goals and build a brighter future for yourself and our family.”
And with that, Chinedu thanked Mama Ngozi for her wise counsel, feeling inspired and ready to embark on his journey towards success, armed with the knowledge and determination to thrive in whichever path he chose.
See lessThank you, what are the skills someone need to to build that he doesn’t always desperate for sales
Thank you, what are the skills someone need to to build that he doesn’t always desperate for sales
See lessI’d say communication, marketing, networking and problem-solving. Once you know how to find and solve people’s problems, you won’t always be desperate for sales.
I’d say communication, marketing, networking and problem-solving. Once you know how to find and solve people’s problems, you won’t always be desperate for sales.
See lessGetting a vocational skill is idea my opinion though it will give you leverage
Getting a vocational skill is idea my opinion though it will give you leverage
See lessHonestly, neither one is automatically “better.” It depends on your current financial situation, your skills, your goals and how much risk you're willing to take. But if you're starting with limited capital, I'd strongly consider learning a valuable skill first. A skilled trade gives you something tRead more
Honestly, neither one is automatically “better.” It depends on your current financial situation, your skills, your goals and how much risk you’re willing to take.
But if you’re starting with limited capital, I’d strongly consider learning a valuable skill first.
A skilled trade gives you something that nobody can easily take away from you: the ability to earn from your knowledge and hands.
For example, depending on your interests, you could learn electrical installation, plumbing, welding, solar installation, refrigeration/AC repair, automotive work, fashion, hairdressing, catering or a digital skill.
Once you’re good at the skill, you can turn it into a business.
That’s where I think the two options can actually work together:
Skill → Experience → Customers → Business → Growth
Starting a business immediately can work, but there’s a bigger risk if you don’t understand the market, customers, pricing and cash flow. You could end up investing your money into a business you don’t really understand.
On the other hand, learning a skill doesn’t mean you have to remain an employee forever. You can start by working for someone, gain experience, build relationships, save money and eventually start your own operation.
So I’d ask myself three questions:
1. What skill can I learn that people are willing to pay me for?
2. Can I become good enough at it to earn independently?
3. How can I eventually turn that skill into a business?
For someone with limited capital, my preferred route would be:
Learn → Earn → Save → Invest → Start/expand a business.
The goal isn’t simply to choose between “skill” and “business.” The smartest move can be to use a skill as the foundation for building your business and wealth.
Because at the end of the day, capital is useful, but a valuable skill gives you the ability to keep creating capital.
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