Lessons from the Counter: One Way My Fast-Food Job Shaped My Entrepreneurial Journey

In the hustle and bustle of life, we often encounter experiences that shape us, mold us, and ultimately propel us forward. Today, I want to share a story from my past, a story that I believe played a pivotal role in my journey to entrepreneurship.

Before I was a founder, an educator, a podcaster, a dream chaser, and a legacy builder, I was a cashier at In-N-Out. (It was the BEST first job I could have asked for! But one day…

During an unexpectedly early rush, I found myself as the only cashier on duty. The line was long, the orders were piling up, and I was doing my best to serve each customer quickly and politely.

Then came an older man, accompanied by his son or grandson. He was impatient, and he made his impatience known to everyone in the room.

He loudly proclaimed, “You need to get somebody else up here helping you. You’re never going to get anywhere in life if you don’t take charge and make things happen.”

His words stung. I was doing my best, yet here was this man, berating me in front of everyone. I felt a lump in my throat, but I managed to respond politely, offering to call my manager if he wished to speak with them. His son looked mortified, and I was on the verge of tears.

His words stuck with me, “You’ll never get anywhere in life if you don’t take charge and do something about it.” At the time, I felt helpless. But looking back, I realize that this encounter shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. It taught me about character, about maintaining grace under pressure, and about the importance of taking charge.

Fast forward to today, and I can’t help but smile at the irony. From that fast-food counter to running a successful online business, I’ve come a long way. I’ve taken charge, I’ve made things happen, and I’ve built a life that’s not just about surviving, but truly thriving.

But the story doesn’t end there. After the encounter with the angry man, a kind woman came up to the counter. She had heard the exchange and took a moment to tell me…

“You’re doing a great job.” At that moment, on the brink of tears, her words meant the world to me. It was a reminder that kindness and encouragement can make a world of difference.

This journey from fast food to financial freedom has been one of growth, resilience, and transformation. It’s a testament to the fact that no matter where you start, with determination and a willingness to take charge, you can create a life of abundance and legacy.

So, to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation, remember this: Your current circumstances do not define your future. You have the power to take charge, to make things happen, and to build a life that you’re proud of. And along the way, don’t forget to extend kindness to others. You never know how much it might mean to them.