From Teacher to Multi-Figure Earner: The Lessons Along the Way

September 24, 20253 min read

From Teacher to Multi-Figure Earner: The Lessons Along the Way

jreoj

Have You Ever Wanted to Do Something Great?


Have you ever dreamed of writing a book, starting a business, or creating a life that outlives you—but felt unsure if you could really make it happen? I’ve been there. When I left teaching to become a multi-figure earner online, I faced doubts that almost stopped me before I began. One of the hardest lessons I learned as a business owner was not to pour more into others than they were willing to pour into themselves. People who don’t invest rarely get the results because they aren’t yet in the mindset to receive them. Having a mentor taught me the importance of meeting people where they are and accepting that not everyone will put in the work to see results.

The Reality of Business Failure


Consistency, not just motivation, is what moves dreams from paper to profit. Discipline is what carries you through when the excitement wears off. I remember hearing in an economics class that most businesses fail within five years. That reality is even sharper in the digital space. Current data backs it up: about 20% of U.S. businesses fail in their first year, and roughly 50% close within five years, with online businesses often facing even steeper odds. These numbers are sobering, but they don’t have to be your story.

  • About 1 in 5 businesses don’t make it past the first year, and about half never see their fifth anniversary.

  • Digital businesses can face even higher early failure rates.

  • Success depends less on luck and more on daily, disciplined action.

When You Want It More Than They Do


This truth reshaped how I lead and mentor. For years, I poured into people who were not pouring into themselves. I wanted it so badly for them. I wanted to see our communities rise, to watch young people discover how to earn income online, to see generational wealth replace generational struggle. But here is what I learned: no matter how much you want to educate everybody, it’s not for everybody—because everybody is not going to do the work. And that’s okay. I had to learn to be okay with that.

  • You can love people and still release them if they’re not ready.

  • You can share opportunities without forcing outcomes.

  • You can stay committed to the mission without carrying someone else’s lack of commitment.

The shift came when I accepted that transformation is a partnership. I can plant seeds, water them with resources and encouragement, but I can’t make them grow. Only those who invest—in time, money, and mindset—see the harvest.

Quotes That Fueled My Journey


When I wanted to quit, powerful words kept me steady.

  • “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” —Nelson Mandela

  • “You are one decision away from a completely different life.” —Mel Robbins

These quotes reminded me that starting—despite fear—creates the momentum success requires.

Faith That Anchored My Steps
Through every pivot and challenge, scripture gave me courage. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you hope and a future.” That verse reminded me that God’s plan doesn’t depend on perfect circumstances—it depends on faith, action, and persistence.

Lessons Learned on the Path from Teacher to Multi-Figure Earner
The more I built, the more I understood that:

  • You can’t save everyone. People must choose to invest in themselves.

  • Consistency outweighs motivation. Daily, small actions create big results.

  • Mentorship matters. The right guide helps you avoid costly detours.

  • Faith and persistence transform setbacks into steppingstones.

  • Impact grows when you release the need to control someone else’s journey.

The Takeaway


From teacher to multi-figure earner, every lesson points back to this truth: success requires showing up long after the feelings fade. It means trusting God’s timing, investing in yourself, and staying consistent until what once seemed impossible is done. Your dream—whether it’s a book, a business, or both—is waiting for you to start.

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Sonya Richardson, of I Am Sonya Brands, is passionate about seeing people thrive as business owners and succeed in life. She brings 20 + years of teaching experience to the entrepreneurial world as she strives to enlighten people on opportunity and growth.

Sonya Richardson

Sonya Richardson, of I Am Sonya Brands, is passionate about seeing people thrive as business owners and succeed in life. She brings 20 + years of teaching experience to the entrepreneurial world as she strives to enlighten people on opportunity and growth.

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