Truth Behind Starting a Business — And Why It’s Not for Everyone
By Raviteja Kongara | June 2025 | Business Fiction
The Wait
Riya sat at her desk, her fingers nervously tapping the edge of her keyboard. She glanced at the clock—just 10 minutes before her scheduled meeting with HR. Her mind raced as she tried to keep her emotions in check.
She thought about the past year, the countless late nights, brainstorming sessions, and the innovative ideas she had contributed to the company’s flagship product. It wasn’t just another project for her—it was her baby, and its success had skyrocketed the company’s revenue.
“This is it,” she whispered to herself. “The recognition I’ve worked so hard for. The promotion, the increment—it’s finally happening.”
The Intercom Message
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sudden ping of her intercom. The HR assistant’s voice came through:
“Riya, you’re requested in the HR cabin now.”
Her stomach churned as she grabbed her notebook, hoping it wouldn’t reveal her anxiety. She took a deep breath and made her way down the hallway. Each step felt heavier than the last.
The Meeting
The HR representative greeted her with a warm smile, but Riya could sense something was off. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the HR head leaned forward and began speaking.
“Riya, first of all, we want to thank you for your incredible contributions to the product. Your work has truly been remarkable.”
Riya’s heart skipped a beat. This was it—the acknowledgment she had been waiting for. But as the HR continued, her excitement began to waver.
“Unfortunately, due to company-wide budget constraints, we are unable to process your promotion or an increment at this time…”
The Aftermath
Riya froze. The words echoed in her mind—“budget constraints,” “unable to process,” “revisit in the future.” She forced a polite smile and thanked the HR head. Back at her desk, the sense of disappointment was overwhelming. It wasn’t just about the money or title—it was about being seen.
That evening, as she sat in her empty apartment, she knew something had to change. The thought that had been simmering in the back of her mind for years now came to the forefront: “Why am I waiting for someone else to recognize my worth? Why not build something where I decide my own value?”
Mindless Scrolling
Riya was scrolling through her feed, seeing posts saying, “Jobs won’t make you rich.” She wanted to be a businesswoman too. Then she came across a familiar face—Krish—talking about entrepreneurship.
His message was clear: Don't start a business out of frustration. Without passion, purpose, or understanding the problem you solve, it will likely fail.
“Entrepreneurship isn’t an escape—it’s a mission,” he said. If you’re willing to sacrifice, stay disciplined, and solve real problems, the journey can be worth it.
The Mentor
Riya remembered her old mentor, Krish, and sent him a message. Hours passed—no response. Just when she gave up hope, at 9 PM, her phone buzzed.
“Hi, how are you doing? Thanks for your kind words. Definitely, I would like to catch up. I hope you will be free on Saturday—I’m available anytime after 4 PM.”
Riya replied instantly. Finally, a sense of direction. This meeting might just be the turning point she needed.
🌱 Felt Riya’s Story Stir Something in You?
Riya’s journey is more than a moment—it’s a mirror. For anyone who’s felt overlooked, uncertain, or ready for more, this could be *your* spark.
👉 Have you ever been in Riya’s shoes?
👉 What did you do—or wish you had done?
👉 Are you still waiting for recognition or ready to define your own path?
This is your chance to reflect, speak, and be heard.
Your story might inspire someone else to take their first step too.
💬 Comment below with your thoughts or experiences.
🔁 Know someone who needs to hear this? Share it with them now.
✨ The road to change starts with one brave thought. Let this story be your beginning.
Written by Kongara Raviteja – a storyteller exploring the quiet power of ordinary moments.