Lessons I wish someone had taught me: Research your way out of poverty

Poverty is not just a lack of money; it is often a lack of access to information, opportunities, and networks. While resilience, hard work, and determination are important, research is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in breaking free from poverty. Research is more than an academic exercise; it is the process of asking questions, seeking out answers, and applying knowledge to transform one’s circumstances.

One of the greatest advantages of research is that it reduces the disadvantage of starting from “zero.” For someone in poverty, financial resources are limited, but information is often free or affordable through libraries, online platforms, community centers, or mentorship networks. By researching, people learn about job opportunities, scholarship programs, grants, small business funding, or community services that can provide a foundation for growth. Each bit of information gathered represents a new possibility.