newyyear

 

In 2013, Atlanta rapper Jeezy began using the hashtag #BossUp on Instagram photos. Clearly, it was signifying his increase in business ventures (i.e. Avion Tequilla, Gourmet Shoes, etc) and his overall evolution into becoming a man. Even as a teenager, Jeezy must’ve had his sights on bigger and better things that were major in contrast to his humble upbringings. The way industry peers and fans have witnessed his growth since releasing street classics like Thug Motivation 101, most parents would appreciate if their child had the same type of inner hustle. Not everyone has a hustlers spirit. But, the ones that do are blessed with the ability to turn nothing into something.

 

For many young adults sometimes the challenge is finding their niche. Remember, as a kid, your parent(s) would sign you up for ballet or Little League Football. In about two weeks of going to classes or practice, you become bored with it and want to try a new sport/hobby. Finding your career niche occurs the same way. Through your teens and 20’s, you may hold several different jobs. Some kids choose to earn money the illegal way. Of course that is not the career choice to go with. But, it’s reality. Whether a good hustle or bad hustle, the tasks and obstacles to becoming a true go-getter may vary. The goal, however, is to become successful…financially.

 

The Millenials (18-34 year olds) are much different than Generation X and the Baby Boomers. Millenials want success BAD. Their motivation starts out with wanting the latest fashions. Eventually, as they grow older, the motivation becomes cars, homes, starting a business, and more. The common thread, though, again is the need to make money.

 

In a few days, the year 2014 will be here. As an young hustler, ask yourself  “are you prepared to reach your goal?”  If not, here are 5 resolutions that can help bring the Jeezy out of you:

 

1. Figure out what talents or skills you have. What are you good at? Can you cook? Do you draw? Can  you create a beat on ProTools?  Find out what your talents are first. This will make it easier for you to come up with ideas on how to capitalize off of your skill sets. 

 

2. Take educational courses to enhance your knowledge base. Finishing high school and/or college is important. The streets can’t teach you everything. Don’t believe it when you hear someone say that. Your hustle choice will require some technical or non-technical knowledge at some point. If you sell jewelry on Instagram, it will make sense to know how to maintain your financial records. Or how to maintain inventory records. Registering for an accounting class, for instance, will help you understand the basics. What sense is it to make money but have trouble counting it??

 

3. Learn to save. Hustlers have the tendency to spend frivolously. They do because making more of it comes easy for them. Be a smart hustler. When you become of age, open up a savings account. Deposit 10-20% of your weekly earnings into that account. Over time, you will increase your net worth and always have “emergency” funds available.

 

4. Choose the right set of friends. Distance yourself from friends or family that hold you back.  Friends can be your downfall. Spend most your time with other go-getters and/or positive influences.  These people will help motivate you and offer words of wisdom. Individuals who lack ambition or even the foresight will be a constant distraction. Through jealousy, possession, or hate, the wrong friends will always make themselves known. Stay away! 

 

5. Keep setting goals (6-months, 12-months, 18-months, etc). Expand your plans as far as you can think about them.  The more ideas you jot down, the more opportunities you can create for yourself. Goals will also help you stay organized and on track. If you fall off or have a minor setback, at least you will be able to identify where you stopped. Then, when it’s time to get your hustle back on, you can pick up right where you left off. 

 

 

No matter what the “hustle” is, it is still a job that requires preparation and commitment. Preparation will allow the young go-getter to establish a solid foundation. Commitment will increase he or she chances of becoming rich and successful. Most millionaires didn’t stop in six months and became rich. They spent years creating the career and lifestyle they wanted for themselves.

 

As a hustler, you create your own life. Jeezy carved out his path to success and became a label owner and entrepreneur.  You can too. Work on the five resolutions listed above and begin today creating your own unique life of prosperity.