When They Assume the Worst: The Hidden Struggles of a Servant-Hearted Entrepreneur
When They Assume the Worst: The Hidden Struggles of a Servant-Hearted Entrepreneur
Owning a business is not for the faint of heart. It’s a calling, a daily walk of faith that often looks glamorous on the outside—but behind the scenes, it’s built on sacrifice, sleepless nights, and deep trust in God’s plan.
Sometimes, I notice people make assumptions about me—based on how I look, how I speak, or what they think I have.
Because of my pale skin, I’ve been told I’m “too white-looking” to have black struggles or struggles of a person of color. Because I speak clearly, people assume I could never have come from a third world country. Because I’m gentle and kind, they think I’ve never known hardship. They see my kindness and often confuse it for weakness or being uneducated or worst lack of intellect.
But the truth is, God built my strength through every storm—through the long nights, the tears, and the prayers whispered when no one was watching.
“The Lord does not look at the things people look at.
People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
— 1 Samuel 16:7
Many assume that if you own a business, you must be “rich.” But they don’t see the rent, the cost to keep the doors open our overhead costs, the marketing bills, the insurance, or the taxes that come with creating something that serves others. Entrepreneurs are often times last in line to be compensated for their time. We do it for our kindness of our hearts. We put more than we get back. And for me this is a calling set by God.
They don’t see the emotional labor it takes to pour your heart into helping people heal—and then to be met with jealousy or resentment when your hard work starts to bloom.
I’ve helped clients transform their minds, bodies, and spirits. I’ve prayed with them, encouraged them, and walked beside them through growth. But sadly, I’ve also seen a few turn away—not because I failed them, but because envy crept in. Some grow bitter when they see light shining from the same place that once lifted them up.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
— Romans 12:21
If you’ve ever felt hated for simply trying to do good, know this—you are not alone. Even Jesus was misunderstood, mocked, and judged by those who couldn’t see His purpose. When people envy your calling, it’s often because they haven’t yet discovered their own.
To my loyal clients, my believers, and my community—thank you. You’ve chosen to believe in yourself, and by doing so, you’ve believed in the vision God placed in me. Together, we’re building something far deeper than Pilates or wellness—we’re building character, faith, and resilience.
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
— Galatians 6:9
So if you’re an entrepreneur or a dreamer feeling discouraged today, remember this: people’s assumptions don’t define your reality.
Keep shining. Keep serving. Keep walking in grace.
Because those who misunderstand your worth today may one day look back and see that all along—you were walking with God.
✨ With love and faith,
Charlene Shanti
Founder, Modality Life Practice