My little story of business resiliency - Part 2

The business opportunity

It all started with THE opportunity.

The opportunity is perfect.

On this chilly fall day, I get excited as I see a franchising booth at the career fair in the main hall of my preparatory college.

Obtaining and operating a Student Painters franchise at 16 would be a dream!

My father had started many businesses, such as restaurants, car rentals, and real estate agencies.  I want to follow him in his footsteps in business.  Now that he lives out of the country and won't be here to help me, I know I'll have to start my first venture alone.

Despite my lack of experience, I have an unfulfilled passion for going into business, and this opportunity is fantastic.

John, the regional manager of the Student Painters franchisor, is willing to meet me for an interview despite my young age.

The process is long and complicated.  I then think of my mother, who has been belittling me for years whenever I would share my ambitious entrepreneurial dreams.

"You're so lazy; you'll end up like your father and never do anything with your life."

In an almost hypnotic routine, I grew up with this prophetic maternal reading of the future.  I suspect I have it embedded in my DNA.

How can I believe I have what it takes to operate a franchise like this?