56 Days From Starting My Business to Make £2,500 at 19

Hey Everyone,

On the 1st of December, I will hit a big milestone: in just 56 days from starting my business, I would of made £2,500. To some of you, that might feel like pocket change, but for me, it’s a major milestone—a sign that this life I’m building is possible. And don’t forget, I still have my 9-to-5 job income too (hehe).

But let me be upfront: nothing I’m doing is truly free. It might look free from the outside—like I’m just posting online or growing organically—but there’s always a bigger reason behind it. Every decision, every action, leads to an outcome. This idea has stuck with me throughout these 56 days and taught me some of the most valuable lessons I’ve ever learned.

1. Nothing in life is free

You’ve probably heard the phrase: “If you’re not paying for the product, you are the product.” That’s the truth. Everything has a cost, whether it’s time, effort, or energy.

Even the moves that seem “free” in my business—posting content, giving value, or building relationships—come with a purpose. These actions build trust, grow my audience, and create opportunities for future growth. Nothing I’m doing is random, and nothing is ever truly free.

2. My age is my secret weapon

At 19, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong in the business world. But I’ve realised that my age isn’t a disadvantage—it’s my competitive advantage.

I’m part of Gen Z. I’ve grown up with social media in my hands. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube aren’t just tools to me—they’re second nature. While a 40-year-old competitor might spend months trying to figure out how to connect with an audience, I already understand the language and culture of these platforms.

Back to the point about social media: it may look free to your eyes, but boy oh boy, it’s completely the opposite. These platforms take your data, sell it, and make millions. They do countless other things behind the scenes that most people aren’t even aware of. Social media is a business—a massive one—and the sooner you understand it, the sooner you can learn to use it to your advantage instead of letting it use you.

This understanding has been a huge edge in my business. Social media isn’t just a place to scroll—it’s a marketplace, a stage, and a way to build relationships. And I know how to use it in ways that feel authentic and impactful.

3. Think in second-order consequences

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned in these 56 days (well from writing this 49 days) is to always think beyond the first result.

First-order thinking: “I made £2,500.”
Second-order thinking: “I’ve built relationships with clients, developed marketable skills, and created systems I can scale.”

Let’s use a TV as an example. First-order thinking says, “I’ll buy the TV, so I can watch my favourite shows.” Simple, right? But the second-order consequence is that you might find yourself glued to the screen, spending hours that could’ve been used to chase your goals, and feel like you have to watch shows, and spend 3 hours worth of watching time to feel like you have got your money’s worth.

The ripple effects of every decision matter. That’s why I focus on actions that have positive second-order consequences—ones that align with my long-term vision.

For me, it’s not just about the money—it’s about freedom. My big why? I simply don’t want to live an average life. I don’t want to work, go home, eat, sleep, repeat, and then wait for 5 vacations a year. That’s not my story.

I’m building a life where I have control over my time, my choices, and my future. If you feel the same way, start small and think big. Every decision matters, and nothing is truly free—but the rewards are worth it.

Cheers to creating your own path,
Z

P.S. What’s your “why”? What’s driving you to build your dream? Reply—I’d love to hear it!