A Singapore-based entrepreneur has gone viral after sharing the often unseen struggles behind building a multimillion-dollar business, reminding people that success rarely happens overnight.

Miza Nazili, founder of multiple businesses, posted a series of images on Instagram contrasting how people perceive her life today with the setbacks she endured before achieving success. Her post has resonated widely online, with many praising her for offering a candid look at the realities of entrepreneurship rather than only celebrating its rewards.

"A friendly reminder our timelines all look completely different, so don't compare yourself to others. We all start somewhere," Nazili wrote alongside the post.

'What you see' versus 'what you didn't see'

The first image in the carousel was split into two contrasting scenes.

On one side, Nazili stood beside a brand-new 2026 Porsche, accompanied by the caption: "What You See. Brand new 2026 Porsche."

The second half revealed what she described as the reality behind that image.

"What You Didn't See. Got fired from my full-time job. Failed 3 businesses. Had less than $20 in my bank account," the text read.

The remaining slides continued the theme, documenting the obstacles she said she faced before reaching her current position.

Nazili said that while her business portfolio now comprises five brands generating more than $15 million in revenue, her family once faced $80,000 in debt. The post also outlined the personal and financial struggles she experienced while trying to build her businesses.

'I hated being poor more than I feared failing again'

The post prompted hundreds of reactions, with many followers asking how she found the motivation to keep going after repeated setbacks.

One user asked: "Mad respect! Do you mind sharing how you overcame the feeling of dread after your business failed, leaving debt behind? What are your steps to stand up and walk again?"

Nazili responded by explaining that her circumstances became the motivation to continue.

"I hated being poor more than I feared failing again. I also hated working a 9–5, and getting fired gave me the push to stand up and find another path," she wrote.

Her response quickly drew praise from other users who said her honesty offered a more realistic picture of entrepreneurship than the polished success stories often shared on social media.

Social media users praise her honesty

Many commenters said they appreciated Nazili for highlighting the difficult years that often remain hidden behind business success.

One person wrote, "You will always be an inspiration, sis. When the going gets tough, you always come to mind."

Another commented, "Thank you for sharing the behind-the-scenes of your success. Most people only share the trophy but never the pain and hardship they went through to get there."

A third added, "Absolutely. Progress can look slow from the outside, but everyone is building from a different starting point. The real win is staying focused on your own next step."