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Manila Bulletin devider Drive devider Shifting Careers: Essential advice for a successful transition to agribusiness

Shifting Careers: Essential advice for a successful transition to agribusiness

Transitioning from a successful career as a chemical engineer to becoming an agripreneur, Samuel Carmen shares his valuable advice and personal insights on his career shift to agribusiness.

Published May 20, 2023 05:01 am

Harvesting in farm. (SOX Peppers)

Transitioning from a successful career as a chemical engineer to becoming an agripreneur, Samuel Carmen has embarked on a journey in the field of agribusiness. He is a co-owner of SOX Peppers, a farm specializing in Carolina Reaper peppers and the production of related products. Prior to his venture into agriculture, Samuel had a career as a chemical engineer, working for three prominent companies. However, the potential he saw in the Carolina Reaper Pepper drove him to embrace a new path as an agripreneur. Samuel shares his valuable advice and personal insights on his career shift to agribusiness. [READ: Spicing up success: The fiery journey of two brother pioneers of Carolina Reaper farming in South Cotabato, Philippines](https://www.agriculture.com.ph/2023/05/19/spicing-up-success-the-fiery-journey-of-two-brother-pioneers-of-carolina-reaper-farming-in-south-cotabato-philippines/)

Seek family support and consultation

 Before taking the leap, Samuel emphasizes the importance of consulting with family members and considering the risks involved. Having a support system in place can provide the necessary encouragement and backing during challenging times.

Evaluate financial preparedness

 Transitioning to a new career often means starting from scratch. Samuel advises assessing your finances and acknowledging that the initial returns might be lower compared to previous employment. Starting a business requires reinvestment and patience, as resources are channeled into growing the venture.

Adjust expectations

 Challenges and risks are inevitable in any business endeavor. Samuel highlights the need to lower expectations and embrace the reality that not everything will go as planned. By accepting and navigating these obstacles, one can persevere and unlock the potential rewards that lie ahead.

Focus on long-term goals

 Samuel encourages individuals to stay committed to their chosen path and push through difficulties. Rewards and success often come to those who persist despite setbacks. Understanding that the journey may be arduous but worthwhile helps maintain motivation and drive.

Unlocking boundless opportunities

 While employment offers stability and a steady income, Samuel reminds aspiring entrepreneurs that creating their own business allows for limitless possibilities. Building a company from scratch opens doors for personal and financial growth, as well as the potential to pass down a legacy to future generations.

Empower others

 Choosing entrepreneurship not only creates one's own story but also provides opportunities to inspire and uplift others. Samuel points out that by establishing successful enterprises, individuals can contribute to the growth and development of their communities, enabling others to create their own narratives of success.

Embrace perseverance

 Samuel emphasizes that perseverance is key to building a thriving business. Just like established brands that proudly display their years of establishment, enduring through challenging times is crucial. Overcoming financial struggles, employment issues, and other obstacles requires continuously seeking solutions and maintaining a resilient mindset. With his valuable advice and personal experiences, Samuel Carmen aims to inspire individuals considering a career transition to explore opportunities in agribusiness. He believes that venturing into agribusiness can lead individuals to achieve remarkable success in the agricultural industry. *Photo courtesy of [SOX Peppers](https://www.facebook.com/soxpeppers)* [*Read more about farming and gardening at agriculture.com.ph*](https://www.agriculture.com.ph/)

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