7 Things People Say When You Tell Them You’re Learning a Trade

You finally decide to take your future seriously. You’re tired of waiting for jobs that never come, tired of hearing "just be patient" while your account is on red. So, you make a bold move: you start learning a trade.

Hairdressing. Tailoring. Barbing. Solar installation. Furniture making. Something real. Something practical.

But then you tell people, and suddenly... the comments start flying in.

Here are 7 things people are likely to say when they find out you're learning a trade and why you shouldn’t let any of them stop you.

1. “Ah ah, what happened to your degree?”

Translation: Why would you ‘stoop’ to learn something with your hands?

This one comes mostly from people who believe true success only comes from office jobs and certificates. They don't realise that having a degree does not guarantee a stable future; especially in today's economy.

Reality check: You can have both. Learning a trade doesn't cancel your education. It multiplies your options.

2. “So you’re now a tailor?”

This is often said with that awkward smile. Like you’ve somehow downgraded. As if learning to sew beautiful, fitted clothes for real people is a joke.

But let’s be clear; tailoring is a billion-naira industry in Nigeria. Fashion runs weddings, churches, Instagram boutiques, and export businesses.

Reality check: They laugh now, but wait until you start charging ₦20,000 for one outfit.

3. “Don’t you think it’s too late to start learning that?”

Whether you’re 22 or 42, someone will always think you’ve “missed it.”

But skills are not age-restricted. And last we checked, income doesn’t ask how old you are before it enters your account.

Reality check: Starting now is better than regretting later. You’re not late, you’re ready.

4. “Are you sure this one will work?”

They don’t mean harm. Sometimes they’re just worried. But often, they’re speaking from fear; not facts.

Thousands of people across Nigeria are building daily income from simple skills. People are baking from home. Barbing from backyards. Styling hair from small corners. It’s working because they’re working.

Reality check: Not every path looks shiny at the beginning. But consistency makes anything work.

5. “So is that the only thing you’re doing now?”

As if learning a trade is some temporary side hobby while you wait for a “real” job.

They don’t know you’re building something. You’re laying bricks for a future that’s both stable and scalable. Learning a trade is not a plan B; it’s a bold plan A.

Reality check: You’re not “just doing this.” You’re building your own lane.

6. “Won’t people look down on you?”

Maybe. But those people won’t pay your bills. What matters more: how people look at you, or how your account looks?

Respect doesn’t come from suits and offices anymore. It comes from value. If you’re solving problems like helping people look good, cook better, power their homes; then you deserve all the respect.

Reality check: Let your results speak. People respect success, even if it comes in aprons or coveralls.

7. “Wow, that’s actually smart.”

Now this one? This is the one you’ll start hearing once you become good at what you do.

After your first five paid clients. After people start asking you for referrals. After you start making more than they expected. That’s when the “wow” begins.

Reality check: They may not understand now. But when they see your results, they will.

In conclusion

People will always have something to say. But they’re not the ones living your life or funding your future.

Learning a trade is one of the smartest things you can do; not because it’s easy, but because it gives you power. Power to earn. Power to build. Power to rise, even when the world tells you to wait.

So next time someone throws shade at your decision, smile and keep going. Because while they’re talking, you’re building.

Ready to Start?

Join thousands of learners across Nigeria building real skills and real income with Suwk.

Whether it’s baking, fashion, hairdressing, or barbing; we’ll help you start, grow, and earn.

Start learning now on Suwk Learn