14 Jul 2011

Is making money that easy?

For the last couple of weeks I have watched 'The Apprentice' and after every episode I am mad with myself. I think why am I not out there making money. Instead, I'm just broke, moaning about my situation and praying that I win the lottery. But 'The Apprentice' makes it look so easy but is it. 

A few weeks ago the task was to buy stock from a warehouse, sell it, and then reinvest in products that sold well. Now this was how Lord Sugar started out and is a module used by every person with a market stall. Buy, add a profit margin and sell. This is something most people can achieve with just a bit of effort. 

However, the majority of the tasks are unachievable for the average individual. I loved Fast Food Chain because in two days they decided on what they wanted to sell, designed and got the menus made, conceived a whole brand and a physical shop was made. That is not realistic for an average person. For a turnaround like that serious money is needed. Also, in earlier episodes where products have been pitched at major shops this again is something the average person can't do. I don't just know the head of buying at Selfridges, but Lord Sugar does. 

So yes, having your own business is achievable with guts, determination and perseverance. However, it takes time (or a lot of initial investment) to achieve the financial success the team members make in days.