I’m still in school and running a business — here’s what they never taught me

Right now, I’m in Year 10, I’m running my own design business.

And honestly? A lot of what I’ve learnt didn’t come from a classroom.

Here’s what school never taught me, but business did:

You don’t need a GCSE in Business to start something

People think you need to finish a course or get a certificate before you’re “ready.”

But I’ve learned more from running MYS Designs than any revision guide could teach.

YouTube, practice, and figuring it out as I go — that’s what’s really moved me forward.

Taking a risk

I’m using my weekends and evenings to build something from scratch. It might not work out perfectly — but I’d rather take that risk now than regret not trying later. My future self will thank me either way.

Budgeting basics

I’ve learnt to treat money like a tool. I split what I earn between:

• What I need (software, gear)

• What I save

• What I spend

No one teaches us that in school — but budgeting has helped me make smarter decisions early.

Big purchases don’t need big debt

Most people think you have to finance big stuff like cars or tech.

But I’ve learnt you can plan for these purchases, save up, and avoid going into debt.

It’s simple — but no one says it.

Why schools should talk more about business

In school, we’re always told to aim for “safe” careers. But why not also show us how to start something?

You don’t have to be a full-time entrepreneur, but even thinking like one helps.

Problem-solving, managing money, building ideas — all real-world stuff that school barely covers.

Lesson learnt

• You don’t need a qualification in business to get started — just action.

• Taking a risk young is smart, not reckless.

• Budgeting should be taught way earlier.

• Not everything needs to be financed.

• Entrepreneurship isn’t just business — it’s life skills.

If there’s anything specific you’d like me to write about or any content ideas you may have, feel free to reach out on my socials or email me at: [email protected].

Talk soon!

Yousaf