For years, I poured my heart and soul into my small business in Kisii. I started with just a few products, a tiny shop, and dreams bigger than my budget. I believed in my work, but not everyone did.
Neighbors laughed behind my back. Relatives whispered that I was wasting my time, that my shop would never grow, that I was foolish to think I could survive in a competitive market. The mockery cut deep. Every time I walked past my little shop, I felt a mix of anger and despair.
I wanted to prove them wrong, but I didn’t know how. Then, the sales started slowing. Customers stopped coming as often. I tried promotions, discounts, even staying open longer, but nothing seemed to work. The pressure was suffocating, and I began doubting myself.
One night, staring at my reflection in the shop mirror, I admitted, “Maybe they were right.” In that moment of vulnerability, a friend encouraged me to seek guidance and focus on practical ways to rebuild my confidence.
Instead of relying on quick fixes, I chose to rethink my strategy. I listened, learned, and decided to take a bold step I had been afraid to try. Quietly, I opened a bigger branch just across the road. I didn’t announce it or seek approval — I simply acted.
Slowly, things began to change. Customers who had drifted away returned. New people became curious. With consistency, courage, and a clearer plan, my business started to thrive more than I ever imagined.
