I was still learning at the time, but I was already pretty good. I could create solid flyers and promo designs, and I enjoyed doing it.

One day, I got connected to a man who owned one of the biggest clubs close to my school. At that time, it felt like a huge opportunity. In my mind, I was thinking, “This is a big man. If I impress him, something big could happen.”

So I started designing flyers and promo graphics for his club.

And honestly, I went all out. I would create really good designs for him, sometimes spending hours on them. The problem was that I never set a proper price.

Most times, I would just send the design and hope he would give me something.

Occasionally, he would send small money. Maybe enough to buy food or data. At the time, I convinced myself it was okay because I was working with someone important.

Then one day, he stopped calling me for designs.

Later on, I found out he had hired another designer for the club.

Out of curiosity, I spoke to the guy one day and asked how much he was being paid.

He told me the man was paying him 300,000 naira every month to handle designs for the club.

Everywhere first blur 😂. 

The difference between me and that designer wasn’t talent. It was positioning.

He presented himself as a professional with clear pricing and structure.

I presented myself as someone just happy to help.

I kept doing free or underpriced work hoping it would eventually turn into a big opportunity.

It rarely works that way.

One thing I learned from that experience is this: never assume someone’s wealth means they will automatically reward your generosity.

If you don’t treat your skill like a business, most people won’t either.

Set your price. Present yourself professionally. And never rely on a rich man’s generosity.