Local residents watched with concern as my once-busy shop grew quieter with every passing day. People whispered that I had run out of luck, that I might close down and disappear from the market altogether.
My competitors seemed to be thriving, opening new branches and attracting my former customers. Meanwhile, I sat behind my counter counting the few coins I made daily, wondering how I would pay rent or buy new stock.
The decline was slow but painful. It started with delayed payments from suppliers, then unexpected losses that wiped out my savings. Soon I was borrowing money just to keep the lights on. My loyal customers started drifting to other businesses, and it felt like I was cursed. I even thought of giving up completely and finding employment somewhere, just to survive. To continue reading, click here.