Why Your Family Helps You Go Abroad but Not Start a Business

It's a frustrating paradox many aspiring entrepreneurs in Bangladesh face. Your family is willing to sell land and take loans, spending lakhs or even crores to send you abroad for a foreign degree and a "stable" job. But when you propose starting a business with a fraction of that amount, you're often met with skepticism, fear, and a resounding "no." Why does this happen?

The Deep-Rooted Fear of Instability

For generations, the middle-class Bangladeshi dream has been defined by stability. A secure job—preferably in the government, a multinational corporation, or as a doctor or engineer—is seen as the ultimate achievement. This mindset is a product of historical economic uncertainty. Business, on the other hand, is perceived as the domain of the unknown, filled with risks and the potential for failure.

"Log Ki Bolenge?" - The Social Status Factor

The social validation that comes with a foreign degree or a high-profile job is immense. It's a tangible symbol of success that parents can proudly share within their social circles. An "MBA from Canada" sounds more impressive and secure to them than "founder of a tech startup." The fear of "what will people say?" if the business fails is a powerful deterrent. The social cost of failure is perceived to be much higher than the potential rewards of success.

A Misunderstanding of Modern Opportunity

Our parents' generation grew up in a world where the paths to success were linear and well-defined. The digital economy, the gig economy, and the startup ecosystem are relatively new concepts. They may not fully grasp the potential of a scalable tech business or a niche e-commerce brand. Their framework for success is based on tangible assets and traditional professions, not intellectual property and market disruption.

How to Bridge the Gap?

Changing this deep-seated mindset is not easy, but it is possible. Here are a few approaches:

• Start Small & Show Traction: Don't ask for a large sum of money upfront. Start your business as a side project, generate some revenue, and get your first few customers. Proof of concept is the best way to earn their trust.
• Create a Detailed Business Plan: Treat them like investors. Present a well-researched business plan that outlines your vision, market analysis, financial projections, and risk mitigation strategies. This shows you are serious and have thought things through.
• Educate Them: Share success stories of local entrepreneurs. Explain the modern business landscape and the potential for growth in your chosen sector. Help them see entrepreneurship not as a gamble, but as a calculated and viable career path.

Ultimately, it comes down to building trust and demonstrating that you have the passion, resilience, and strategic thinking to navigate the world of entrepreneurship. Their hesitation often comes from a place of love and a desire to protect you from hardship. By proving your capability, you can turn their fear into support.