In my MBA Entrepreneurship class, our professor stressed the importance of having and managing your own business. "Get a degree. Build your own business. Don't become an employee. Be the employer."
I was pretty sure I understood what he meant. Well, I thought I did. It's not until recently that I fully understood what he really meant
For the last 25 years I've been a teacher, an employee. And it is common knowledge that in the Philippines, or anywhere else in the world, being a teacher does not make you rich.
So, I finally broke the chains, jumped out of the rat race, and started my own business. It's not easy letting go of a secure source of income. Many opposed about my decision. But I just had to take the risk.
And now I'm here.
Most people will say I'm a fool. But I guess we'll never know until we try. And try I will.
Needless to say, if you don't take risk, there is no reward.
I was inspired by the street vendors whom I took photo of as my entries to the contest sponsored by 
So, call me a fool, making unwise decision. But here's what I realize. And it's summed up in an acronym I came up a few weeks ago: STAPLE.
Let me share it with you.
S - Skills. When you have skills, with emphasis on its plural form, you have something to offer, be it products or services.
T - Tools. Your skills are backed by tools that will allow you create, design, and ultimately produce.
A - Attitude. A very important aspect of a business is how you perceive things and issues, like handling failures as well as successes.
P - People. Tapping the right people, suppliers, sales, contacts are keys to sales.
L - Logistics. Knowing where and when your product is positioned is very important.
E - Engagement. The negotiations, compromises, and ultimately closing deals is one you will have to tackle to get that sale.
I am in this roller-coaster ride currently and I am enjoying every bit of the experience.
And if I fail, I will try again. Changing perspective, when necessary.
And I will succeed. Cheers!