Dear fashion preneur,

The business of fashion is not easy and it has nothing to do with being Nigerian or being in Nigeria. If you were shopping for ease , you chose the wrong career. However what I have noticed is that most of what we struggle with has nothing to do with the business in itself, the bulk of our problems lies in the pressure put on ourselves, our definition of success, comparisons with other brands and not understanding that our business is a going concern .

We are not meant to figure it all out in a year or 2 or 3. The first 10 years of your business I believe you measure success by how far you come into your own , knowing what kind of brand you are and digging deep into that is success of a monumental proportion. Once you do this and focus, then the ease comes and you are on the up and up. Challenges will come but the battle has been won.

If you are an entrepreneur in Nigeria you already know the economy and the business terrain is challenging but that does not mean you should throw in the towel . Adjust your expectations if you must, adapt by cutting costs and explore new income streams if you must but this is not a reason to quit it’s just part of the journey , a small bump in the road. Another chance to test your resolve and your commitment to this career choice. If you work it right you will come out on the other side of this season a stronger and more powerful brand . Hang in there. I’m rooting for you.