Chapter 1: The Foundation of Entrepreneurship

Recently, Jason has been deeply engaged in our discussions about his entrepreneurial journey. We explored the idea of what his first product might be, and I proposed creating a pamphlet or mini-course based on his knowledge. My perspective was simple: "A 5th grader can teach a 4th grader."

He suggested developing a booklet focused on how a child with ADHD learned to achieve A’s. I was curious about his method and he responded with a clear outline:

1. Set a clear goal.
2. Determine a suitable approach.
3. Begin experimenting.
4. If it succeeds, amplify it; if not, pivot to a new strategy.

This framework is impressive and aligns closely with what I would advocate. I want him to take ownership of this process and develop something truly beneficial. However, I believe there’s potential for enhancement. Here are the adjustments I would suggest, while still allowing him to voice his own ideas:

1. Select a goal: Ensure it aligns with your core values.
2. Choose an approach: Model your actions, emotions, and strategies after those who have successfully achieved similar goals, starting from your current situation.
3. Confirm your commitment: Be prepared to invest the effort required.
4. Start experimenting: Maintain awareness of your results.
5. Evaluate your outcomes: If successful, replicate the actions; if not, explore alternative methods.

Additionally, I’ll encourage him to name his methodology, which could create a sense of exclusivity and facilitate marketing.

To implement this, he could follow a series of steps:

• Discuss his ideas, possibly using speech-to-text technology.
• Edit the content into a booklet format.
• Consider adding an MP3 version of the text or producing a video.
• Host the product on Google Docs and an unlisted YouTube channel.
• Create a sales page using a free website.
• Share his personal narrative: his challenges and the solutions he discovered.
• Price it reasonably, perhaps around $10, and establish a PayPal account for transactions.

Now, he needs to drive traffic to his sales page, utilizing media that resonates with his target audience (think of a younger version of himself). Upon receiving an order, he should send a follow-up email containing links to the Google Doc and YouTube channel.

By following this approach, he will establish a small business. As he earns a few hundred dollars, he will grasp the fundamental aspects of running an online venture, laying the groundwork for future financial success. This includes:

• Identifying a genuine need.
• Creating a product or service to address that need.
• Establishing a mechanism for managing transactions.
• Engaging in marketing and sales activities.

All of this can be accomplished without any financial investment beyond his own time and effort. Interestingly, I’ve invested considerable amounts in similar training, and many individuals have built entire careers around such frameworks.

How far can he take this? If he's willing to delve into the world of online sales and commit to further education, such as pursuing an AA or BA degree, there's no reason he couldn't achieve significant financial independence—as long as he continually hones his skills in communication, content creation, marketing, and financial management (including taxes!).

This represents a gateway to his economic future, provided he takes proactive steps. I can share countless examples of people who have successfully followed this blueprint. After his month off from school, I aim to focus on building his business over the next year, whether by developing his own venture or apprenticing with an established business owner. Regardless of the path he chooses, I want him to adopt the mindset of an independent contractor rather than that of an employee.

I want him to ask essential questions:

• What product or service is being offered?
• Who constitutes the ideal customer?
• How are they attracting their clientele?
• What sales system do they employ, and how is money managed?
• What is the simplest iteration of this business, and how did it evolve, with an eye toward future expansion?
• What lessons can be gleaned here that will benefit him in other career pursuits?

If he can identify the product or service being provided and the target customer, all he needs to do is position himself effectively, demonstrate his value, and authentically address their needs. At the same time, I want him to observe individuals who struggle to get paid; they often fail to prove their unique value to potential clients—either because their product or service isn't directly exchanged for money or because they can't objectively justify the worth of their offerings.

He can choose to be in that position, but I want him to recognize the distinction. I often hear naive arguments from those who believe they "deserve" more money, and if he opts for such a route, he must be prepared to accept payment in emotional satisfaction instead.

Through this journey, he'll uncover fascinating insights about human psychology and its implications for relationships (including romantic ones) and his own well-being (such as attractiveness, energy, and health—all crucial for effective performance and communication).

THIS IS THE CRUCIAL INSIGHT I’VE BEEN SEEKING. When he acknowledges a realistic goal that offers a dependable path toward success, one that can sustain him, provide a valuable service, educate him about life, and potentially yield the income he desires in proportion to the service rendered.

Indeed, this is precisely the lesson I wish someone had imparted to me at his age. In essence, isn’t that the essence of parenting? To impart the wisdom we've gained or share what we wish we had learned?

I vowed to guide him safely into adulthood.

BLAM! Gotcha.

Namaste

Steve

www.lifewritingpremium.com

Chapter 2: Embracing the Entrepreneurial Mindset