Laugh Now, Pay Later: The Day You'll Need My Time

A Young Dreamer From a Middle-Class Family

Habib Rehman was not born into wealth or privilege. He was a young man from a humble middle-class family, where financial struggles were a daily reality. His father worked tirelessly as a low-level clerk in a government office, his mother stitched clothes to support the household, and his siblings followed conventional paths—study hard, secure a stable job, live a safe life.

But Habib was different. Deep inside, he had a vision—a passion to achieve something extraordinary, to break free from mediocrity.

“Dreams are good, beta,” his uncle would often say at family gatherings, “but they don’t put food on the table. Focus on reality.”

That word—reality—felt like a heavy chain around Habib’s neck. He wanted more than just survival; he wanted success, freedom, and impact.

The Big Idea: Building Something From Nothing

At just twenty-one, Habib decided to take a risk. He spent his evenings in a tiny rented room above a mechanic’s shop, pouring his energy into an idea—a mobile app to help small businesses manage their customers efficiently.

He had no formal degree in technology, no big funding, no mentor—just determination, self-learning, and countless sleepless nights.

When he shared his vision with friends, they laughed.

“Habib, do you think you’re going to be the next Steve Jobs?” one teased.

“Stop wasting time on this fantasy,” another mocked. “Get a real job before your father throws you out.”

Habib smiled outwardly but felt the sting inside. Still, he chose not to argue. Every insult became fuel for his ambition.

Facing Doubt and Pressure From All Sides

One evening, as Habib walked into his modest home, he overheard his parents talking.

“I’m worried about Habib,” his mother whispered. “He doesn’t earn, doesn’t study properly. What will become of him?”

His father sighed deeply. “He’s young. Maybe he’ll grow out of this phase. But if not… we can’t support him forever.”

Habib closed his door quietly, sat at his old desk, and stared at the glowing screen. His app was almost ready. Months of hard work, dedication, and resilience had led to this moment.

“Let them doubt me,” he muttered. “I’ll turn their doubts into my strength.”

The First Breakthrough: When Passion Meets Opportunity

Habib began pitching his app to local shopkeepers, tailors, and café owners. Most ignored him. Some laughed in his face.

But one tea stall owner agreed to try it. Within a month, the stall’s sales jumped by 15%. Word spread. Other small businesses started signing up.

For the first time, Habib’s dream had proof—his idea worked.

Still, friends mocked him, relatives criticized him, and society labeled him as “wasting time.” But Habib kept going, driven by his unshakable belief in himself.

The Turning Point: From Laughter to Applause

Months later, a local business association invited Habib to showcase his app. Nervous but determined, he stood before a hall full of experienced entrepreneurs and investors.

He spoke with passion, presented real results, and answered every question with confidence.

When he finished, the room erupted in applause.

By the end of the event, Habib secured contracts with over 40 businesses. Within six months, his startup grew exponentially, investors approached him, and media outlets began writing about his success story.

The same people who once doubted him now praised him.

Sweet Victory: When the World Pays for Your Time

One evening, sitting in his modern office overlooking the city skyline, Habib’s phone buzzed. It was one of his old friends—the same one who had laughed at him years ago.

“Habib, yaar,” the message read, “Can we meet? I’m starting a small business and need your help.”

Habib smiled and typed his reply:

“Sure. But my time isn’t free anymore.”

He leaned back, thinking about the journey—from a ridiculed dreamer to a respected entrepreneur. The road had been long, filled with struggle, doubt, and perseverance. But he had proved one undeniable truth:

They can laugh at you today.

But tomorrow?

They will pay for your time.

Key Takeaway: Turn Doubt Into Drive

This is not just Habib’s story—it’s a universal lesson for anyone with a dream.

Believe in yourself even when no one else does.

Use criticism as motivation, not discouragement.

Success is the best answer to doubt.

Never let the laughter of others stop you. The world often mocks what it does not yet understand—until it has no choice but to respect it.