The Bike Repair Shop That Almost Broke Me

When I was twenty-two, I opened a small bike repair shop near the train station.

I had saved money for two years, and I was sure that customers would come every day.

The first month was busy, because people liked my low prices.

However, I soon learned that low prices do not always bring profit.

I was repairing five bikes a day but earning almost nothing after paying for parts and rent.

My biggest mistake was not checking my costs carefully before I started.

I also bought too many tools that I never used, which wasted more money.

After four months, I had to borrow money from my sister to pay the rent.

That was a hard moment, and I felt like a failure.

Instead of closing the shop, I raised my prices a little and started offering quick weekend services.

Slowly, regular customers began to return, and they told their friends about my work.

Now the shop is small but stable, and I always write down every cost before I buy anything.