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How can I get my business up and out as best as possible if I have controlling parents?

I want to start a clothing brand, but my mother won't allow me to get the stuff for my brand, without her buying the stuff, since she wants to be the boss for me.

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Diya’s Answer

Hi Jada,
I understand your frustration.
It’s possible your mom is concerned for your safety. If she’s willing to buy what you need for you, then is that a compromise you can make? If not, then reflect on why it’s important for you to do it yourself and explain that to your mom. You may need to set some boundaries and you may need to be open to listening as well.

Perhaps spend some time deciding what parts of your business and clothing brand you want to be in charge of (like designing it, selecting the materials, building a website etc) and what parts your mom is allowed to help with (financial transactions, helping you promote it, etc).

Another question to ask yourself is how will you manage your time to keep up academically and grow your business? What skills do you need to learn to help yourself do both?

Thinking out what matters to you and how you can get it done will help you have a calm and productive conversation with your mom. And remember, any business will have controlling managers or coworkers or other types of people. Working with your mom to resolve this conflict is just practice for resolving other conflicts in your business in the future!
Thank you comment icon 💯 agree “ And remember, any business will have controlling managers or coworkers or other types of people. Working with your mom to resolve this conflict is just practice for resolving other conflicts in your business in the future!” Consider writing down your plan Marti Derow, MBA, PMP
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david’s Answer

Ok, this is time for some hard facts. You want to start a business, and you want your mom to pay for it. If you want to be the boss (and I agree), then use your own money to buy the resources to start small. Then, as you sell in small quantities, you can then invest in more resources as you expand. Running a business requires a good financial investment and, since you have none, starting small is the way to go. Don't make your mom responsible for this, as it's your dream.
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Jeff’s Answer

Seek to understand her reservations about you taking the reins. This is known as WAR (What's At Risk?). Ask her, "What potential risks do you see if I handle things independently?" Pay attention to her response and validate any valid points she makes. Then, propose questions such as, "How can we mitigate these risks without you needing to exert as much control as you're suggesting?"

This is all part of negotiation, a skill that can be learned and honed. Consider this an opportunity to practice, as learning is a key aspect of establishing your first business. I'm genuinely excited about your idea and I'm rooting for you to bring it to life. In the meantime, focus on what you can accomplish while you're waiting for the next stage to unfold. Lastly, if the only way to pursue your business is under conditions you're not comfortable with, it's important to question, "Given these circumstances, is this still what I want?" You might discover that the reality you're pushed into by unfavorable circumstances is actually better than what you initially envisioned.
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Jerome’s Answer

Does your school have a class, club or association that would allow you to make samples of what you'd eventually like to sell? If this could be part of the your education and something you can share with your parents, maybe that could help change their mind.

If the above doesn't work, take now to learn what you can, study, create business plans and be ready for a time when you can move forward.
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Jacob’s Answer

Starting a business while dealing with controlling parents can be challenging, but it's essential to pursue your passion and dreams. Here are some advice-oriented steps you can take:

1. Open Communication: Have a sincere and open conversation with your parents about your aspirations. Express your passion for the clothing brand and your desire to be independent in this venture.

2. Present a Business Plan: Prepare a detailed business plan that outlines your brand's vision, target audience, products, marketing strategies, and financial projections. Showing a well-thought-out plan may help your parents understand the seriousness of your endeavor.

3. Seek Compromise: Find middle ground with your parents where they can support your business without controlling every aspect. Maybe they can provide some initial investment or guidance while still giving you the freedom to make decisions.

4. Gain Experience: Consider working in the fashion industry or relevant fields to gain experience and demonstrate your commitment and skills. This experience can build your credibility and confidence in pursuing your own business.

5. Start Small: Begin your clothing brand as a side project or on a small scale to show that you're capable of managing it effectively. As you prove yourself, your parents might become more open to giving you greater autonomy.

6. Seek Supportive Mentors: Look for mentors or advisors in the fashion industry who can guide and support you through your entrepreneurial journey. Their validation can carry weight with your parents and give you valuable insights.

7. Financial Independence: If possible, strive for financial independence to fund your business and reduce dependence on your parents' resources and control.

8. Be Persistent and Patient: It might take time for your parents to come around to the idea. Stay persistent and patient, continuously demonstrating your dedication to making your clothing brand successful.

Remember, starting a business requires courage and determination. Stand firm in your beliefs and show your parents that you are capable of making your clothing brand a success while respecting their concerns.
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Connor’s Answer

Best idea is to look up the process of what you want to make. Learn as much as you can. And when she sees what you can do you will get help.
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PwC’s Answer

Dive into the world of business systems, grasp the art of crafting one, master the intricacies of supply chain management, and seek guidance from a mentor who has walked the path you aspire to tread.
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Warren’s Answer

Try joining a social group online with this area of focus and get to networking and learning.. Start a webiste or profile on LinkedIN or some way to socialize and network in this area of activity -
Find a paying gig in the area of interest to learn - Trendy Botique
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