7 years ago I was at the very start of my dream. I just begin my journey as a web developer. My family lived in a small village in Bangladesh, and they really had no idea what is computer or web development. When I told my parents I want to choose this path, they got worried. To them it was like a totally unknown world.
I keep telling them for weeks, “Don’t worry, I will do something big.” After almost one month they finally agree to let me join a small IT training center. For me that was my first big win in life.
During the 7 month course I gave my full heart. Day and night I just code, sometimes I forget to eat, even can’t remember if I ate or not. At the end I made few projects and I was happy with it. But then the real struggle started—getting a job.
For 3 months I try and try but nothing happen. Every rejection break me a little. My family keep asking, “Will this really work?” I felt like walls closing around me. Honestly it was do or die for me.
One night, while I was so frustrated, I found a site called Envato. A place where people can sell their projects. I thought maybe this is my chance. I took my best project, spend 1 more month fixing, adding features, and improving the design. Then with a shaking heart I submit it.
And magic happen. My project got accepted. On first day I sold 2 copies, total $18. That was my first ever earning in USD. I can’t even explain the happiness… it felt like the sky open just for me. That $18 was not just money, it was hope.
My Envato (Codecanyon) profile link: Codecanyon Portfolio
My Envato (Themeforest) profile link: Themeforest Portfolio
I added this in my CV and apply again for jobs. This time a company call me. In the interview they really liked my Envato project and they hired me. Right after interview I called my mother, and hearing her happy voice was one of the best moment of my life. I finally did what I promised her.
Now I work as a Software Lead in a big company here in Bangladesh and still create products for Envato. Looking back I understand one thing: when you are lost, you don’t always need a big success… sometimes a small light is enough. For me that light was $18.
✨ Never give up, even the smallest win can change your whole life.
