With the 2013-2014 school year in session, we thought it would be appropriate to do an article on how to make the most of this school year from the perspective of a young entrepreneur. Check out the following ten points and let us know what you think!
1.) Be healthy.
Between the demands of school and the time required to put into any businesses which you may have, stress is inevitable. Don’t get fat though, because no one likes being fat. Ditch the stereotypical ramen noodles and pop tarts and go for some fruit and protein bars instead.
2.) Don’t burn bridges.
Sometimes it can be easy to get caught up with networking and work and to neglect old friendships and relationships. Don’t let this happen to you, as few friendships are worth ending over a lack of time or interest, and it only makes you look like a jerk.
3.) Appease parents.
As much as they may not seem to appreciate what you do or what your life goals are, they did raise you and chances are they’re probably paying for your school. You owe it to them to at least try and make them happy every once in a while. Plus, happy parents = happy checking account ;)
4.) Make new friends.
School is the perfect place to meet new people for many reasons, but don’t try and assign a reason to every aspect of your life in terms of business. You’re still a kid and still there to have some fun, so be sure to remember this and make some friends just because – not because they have connections, business interest, or rich parents with contacts, but just to have fun with and enjoy hanging out with.
5.) Make new [business] connections.
Of course, don’t lose sight of business goals either. It’s not a bad idea to befriend some members of the aforementioned demographics, as long as you do so in moderation. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between school and business.
6.) Set goals (and reach them!).
Although this one’s not school-dependent, you should always set goals as an entrepreneur. Reaching $25k in sales in 6 months, networking with 365 new people a year, making all A’s and B’s to keep the parents happy, whatever – just do it.
7.) Try something new.
Life is all about trying new things. Go skydiving, take up a new hobby, get a new haircut or try a new personal style. You just might find something you really like or enjoy doing.
8.) Be a badass (or try).
Well, this one should go without saying. Double-park your Benz in the back lot, argue with a professor (but only if you win), don’t complete an important assignment and close a deal instead, or stock the dorm fridge with Dom Perignon and Moët.
9.) Make an impact.
What good is school if no one remembers you after you graduate and move on to bigger and better things? Do something to make sure no one will forget you. You’ll want as many people as possible to recognize you someday on the cover of Forbes as they pass by the newsstand on their way to their 9-5.
10.) Have fun.
Remember that your school years are, like any other times in your life, years that you cannot get back. Keep that in mind and enjoy yourself and you can master the art of balancing schoolwork, socializing, and entrepreneurship simultaneously and go straight to the top without compromising your college experience or having any regrets whatsoever.
Let us know what you think! You can find me at Carbon Trim Solutions.
– Kiran
