Summary
Highlights
Michelle Young discusses her transition from earning $250,000 as a software engineer to $33,000 running a matcha shop, emphasizing her newfound happiness. She highlights the dedication required to perfect matcha preparation and her all-in approach to endeavors she's passionate about.
Michelle grew up in San Francisco with a single immigrant mother, experiencing financial hardship. This led to a strong drive for financial stability, with her older brother influencing her to pursue software engineering as a lucrative career path.
Michelle recalls her first software engineering offer of $160,000, which brought immense financial freedom and the ability to travel. However, she soon realized that the work felt 'fake' and unfulfilling, leading to demotivation despite a good workplace environment.
By 2022-2023, Michelle knew she needed a career change, realizing money wasn't the sole motivator. She identified a gap in New York City's matcha scene and decided to open her own cafe. She saved $200,000 cash, a modest amount for a New York City venture, to fund her dream.
While still working as a software engineer, Michelle worked early mornings at Starbucks to learn the physical skills of running a cafe. This period was challenging but exciting, as she was on a mission to acquire the necessary practical experience.
Michelle faced significant hurdles, including difficulties securing a lease due to being a new small business owner, problems with contractors, and a basement flood the night before opening. Despite these setbacks, she pushed through, focused on the next immediate task.
To support her new venture, Michelle significantly cut down on personal expenses. She gave up her desirable studio apartment and took on a roommate, accepting these sacrifices as necessary for her entrepreneurial journey.
Michelle emphasizes the crucial role of her friends, who provided invaluable support during construction issues and lined up for hours on opening day. Their community support was a deeply moving experience that fueled her determination.
Initially, Michelle was hands-on, whisking every drink. Now, her employees manage the shop, allowing her to focus on administrative tasks and work behind the bar a few days a week. She finds immense joy, meaning, and purpose in creating a community space and impacting customers, valuing this far more than her previous high salary.