22/08/2025
Chika had always been the life of the party. Every Friday, his friends dragged him to lounges across Lagos, where bottles flowed and laughter filled the air. But Monday mornings told a different storyβhis shop, where he sold phone accessories, often opened late, leaving impatient customers to buy elsewhere.
One morning, Mama Tolu, his neighbor at the market, called him aside. βYoung man, business before pleasure,β she said. βIf you donβt take care of your source of income, the pleasure will soon dry up.β Her words stung, but he brushed them off.
Weeks later, Chikaβs rent was due, and his landlord threatened eviction. His pockets were dry, and suddenly, the party invitations lost their shine. Reality struck hard.
Determined to change, Chika began opening his shop early, stocking new items, and treating customers with respect. Slowly, sales grew. One Saturday, while arranging goods, his friends called: βGuy, come out, itβs happening tonight!β
He smiled, shook his head, and said, βNot today. My shop comes first.β
Months later, Chika had saved enough to expand his business. When he finally went out to celebrate, he paid the bills without stress. He had learned: true pleasure lasts longer when business comes first.
