How to make a career from reefing?

[littlefoxx]

As a former store owner, you will work 80 hours to earn what you do in 40 hours at work/ a job. The rewards are interaction with fish and customers. The downfall is livestock losses, operating costs, taxes, equipment costs and advertising costs although reduced with social media

Did you start up your own store? Hoe long did you have it?

 

[vetteguy53081]

Did you start up your own store? Hoe long did you have it?

almost 13 years and yes started from the bottom to a very large store

 

[Reeftogo]

I have a small garage shop. Labor of love.

I treat it as a side hustle.
I focus on what I’m good at.
Enjoy the hobby.
Not quitting that day job

….unless your side hustle pays more for less work.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Did you start up your own store? Hoe long did you have it?

Thirteen years until I got divorced and got custody of my daughter. She came first before the store as I already had a great paying job while running the store. I started from scratch but was No easy street

 

[Serpentman2024]

Sorry to be a downer but the quickest way to ruin a hobby can be turning it into your primary job, lol. Although it sounds like a dream gig, running a business takes an objective mindset. In other words, you have to avoid getting "high on your own supply" mentality. With that being said, money can be made in this hobby. Never underestimate the value of laziness lol. Installation, service and maintenance is a big business as many people/businesses want a reef tank but have no desire to do it themselves. Retail can be profitable but has its pitfalls with online competition. Coral or fish propagation can also be profitable but as you can see from the amount of ads and market listing, its becoming a slightly saturated market.

If you are interested in getting into the science aspect, I highly caution you there. My undergrad is a degree in marine biology, which essentially qualifies you for entry level lab work. Typically, advanced degrees (PhD) are required for any meaningful work. Therefore, you'll be as invested in tuition/student loans as a doctor/surgeon without the pay scale. Sorry if this comes across as negative. I consider myself a realist.