Yes, the bag was expensive, but I saved long and hard to pay for it and worked extra hours to save the money quicker. This really did give me a good lesson in money and instilled a work ethic at a young age.
From being 15-years-old, I have had at least two jobs at any given time - in addition to completing my GCSEs, A-Levels, two NVQs and a degree. Throughout my final year of University I worked three days during the week, plus an unpaid weekend job to gain work experience to complement my degree. This did pay off, as I walked into a job the day after I handed my last essay in, but I honestly would have worked longer for free if it had been necessary.
I launched my own company last year and I've since visited schools, colleges and universities to talk to students. I'm often asked for my one piece of advice and I always say the same: Be prepared to work very hard and gain as much experience in your industry as possible, whether this be paid or unpaid, short or long term.
My parents always told me that I could do anything I wanted, as long as I was prepared to work hard. I was watching a TV programme recently that followed young people who were planning a (very expensive) birthday party. I was cringing at their attitude to money and work, and their complete lack of disrespect towards their parents and the people who were providing services for their party. I can honestly say that my parents would have cancelled anything they were planning for me if I had shown any signs of disrespect like these teenagers did. I was shocked! I am aware that this makes good TV and will be dramatised, but I really felt this overstepped the mark and I really hope that no young people who watch the show think this is an acceptable way to behave or treat people!
When I started writing this post I was going to talk about bags and shoes, but seem to have gone off on a bit of a rant. I've decided to publish this post anyway and I'll attempt to write my original article again soon.
I'd be really interested to hear your views on this.
