Most people don’t question the script they’re handed: school, degree, job, mortgage, retirement. But Simon Makari saw things differently. At just 18, he walked away from university after a year, choosing to build his own path in business instead. Now working as an investor, entrepreneur, and business growth consultant, he’s challenging others to rethink what’s possible. His story shows how outdated advice might be holding back a generation ready for something different.
Why Traditional Paths No Longer Work
The old roadmap to success looks increasingly unrealistic. “As a nation, we’ve been institutionalized into believing there’s only one way to succeed: go to school, pick a degree, get a job in a field that may or may not be related to what we studied, buy a house, pay it off, and hopefully, retire comfortably,” Simon explains.
But something’s not adding up. “Houses are no longer affordable for the average person, and now, more than ever, there are opportunities everywhere. Opportunities that didn’t exist for previous generations,” he points out. His straightforward question cuts to the heart of the problem: “So why are we prescribing old medicine to a modern sickness?”
Three Keys to Creating Your Own Path
Walking away from expectations isn’t easy, especially at 18. “I went to university for a year, believe me, I’ve tried it. I’m not just saying this; I’m living it and breathing it,” Simon shares. The decision came after a big realization. “The traditional path wasn’t for me. I wanted more.” He didn’t have everything figured out from the start. “Initially I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to do big things. I wanted to be a catalyst for change—someone who’s not just living life, but changing the game.”
So, he started to create his own path and created over three elements:
1. Educating Yourself
Simon knew he needed knowledge, just not the conventional kind. “Being quite new to the business world I knew that I needed to educate myself in a different way,” he explains. His solution? “I invested in multiple business coaches. Yes, multiple. And yes, it costs a lot of money, but I’m doing this because I’m committed to my vision. I’m all in, and I’m doing whatever it takes to get ahead.”
2. Creating an Identity
Success demands more than just new skills. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt so far is that success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about who you become in the process,” Simon notes. “You have to become the kind of person who can create success in your life. You have to change mentally, emotionally, and even physically.” His age brought extra challenges. “Being this young in business is an obstacle. I am coming across criticism, coming across judgement and am even dealing with people who refuse to take me seriously,” he admits. The solution? “Unless I can become the person capable of success, the person that acts despite judgement and rejection, there is no way I can succeed.”
3. Trusting the Process
Big goals take time. “On my wall, I’ve got my five-year goals that I’m working toward,” Simon shares. “And although everyday I come across challenges, and at times progress is slow, I’m optimistic about the future, and I’m excited to hit those targets.”
Simon’s message resonates beyond his years: “It’s okay to carve your own way. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.” He’s refreshingly honest about where he stands. “I’m not perfect. I’m still growing, but every day I get closer to the person I’m meant to be. And if I can do it, so can you.” In a world where traditional paths seem increasingly out of reach, Simon’s approach offers a different way forward – one built on commitment, personal growth, and the courage to choose your own direction.
To learn more about Simon Makari and his approach, check out his website and LinkedIn profile
