Teen Entrepreneur Advice

Starting a business as a teenager can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. At myfirstpaycheck.com, we’ve had the pleasure of speaking with young entrepreneurs like 13-year-old Jason O’Neill, who shared his journey and insights with us.

Challenges of Starting a Business

Jason mentions that one of the hardest parts of starting his own company was not being taken seriously by adults. Many people view a young entrepreneur's business as a hobby rather than a legitimate venture. Additionally, balancing work and play can be tough. Jason admits there were times he wanted to quit, but his parents kept him motivated.

Rewards of Entrepreneurship

Despite the challenges, Jason found many aspects of running his business enjoyable. He has won numerous awards and received national recognition. One of his favorite parts is speaking at schools and events, which has helped him overcome the fear of public speaking.

Early Business Ventures

Jason started his entrepreneurial journey with a lemonade stand at age five. He later ran a hot chocolate stand and a neighborhood recycling business. His current venture, Pencil Bugs, has grown significantly, and he plans to continue expanding it rather than working for someone else.

Gaining Experience

Jason believes that his business experience will be invaluable in the future. He emphasizes the importance of practical experiences and encourages other teens to try their own ideas. He also donates part of his earnings to help kids in foster care and hospitals.

Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

Jason recommends that young teens start their own businesses, even if the idea seems simple or silly. He highlights the advantage of not having to earn a living at a young age, making it a great time for trial and error. He also advises finding an adult to support and guide you through the process.

In summary, starting a business as a teenager can be a great learning experience. With dedication, hard work, and support, young entrepreneurs can achieve success and make a difference in their communities.