Kokomo Teen Turns Summer Gig into Thriving Lawn Care Business
At 17 years old, Jamarion is showing the community what hustle looks like. The owner behind Common Grounds Landscaping & Lawn, he’s up and out early, making lawns look their best across Kokomo.
What started as a summer gig has turned into a growing lawn care service run with dedication, professionalism and a smile. From early mornings to freshly cut lawns, Jamarion Common is proof that age doesn’t define work ethic. His drive, reliability and attention to detail set him apart, and he encourages other young entrepreneurs to not wait for the perfect moment or feel like they need everything figured out — just start.
Taking his own advice, Common has learned more this summer than he could have anticipated — far outside the realm of lawn care services.
Communication has been one of the most important skills he has developed through his first year as an entrepreneur. Whether Common is providing quotes, responding to client questions or explaining his services, he’s learned how to express himself clearly, respectfully and professionally.
On the business side, he’s gained experience with invoicing, setting pricing, managing customer expectations, and tracking payments and expenses.
“I’ve also developed better time management skills,” Common says. “Coordinating multiple jobs, navigating changing weather, and staying organized while preparing to return to school requires discipline and planning. These are skills I know I’ll carry with me far beyond lawn care.”
One of the biggest surprises to Common has been how much personal growth happens behind the scenes. Initially, he thought running a lawn care business would mostly be about physical labor — mowing lawns, trimming edges and handling equipment. What he didn’t expect was how much it would challenge him mentally and emotionally. He’s learned how to handle pressure, how to stay professional when he’s exhausted and how to push through difficult days.
Something else that caught him off guard was the connection he’s built with clients.
“Many of them treat me like family, and that makes me want to show up with my best effort every time,” he says. “There’s a deep sense of pride that comes with seeing a job well done and knowing your name is behind it. That sense of ownership is what keeps me going.”
His mentors — two of the most important women in his life — have propelled him to where he is today.
“My mother and grandmother have been two of my most important mentors,” he says. “My mom taught me the value of hard work, accountability and independence. Watching her handle responsibilities while supporting our family has inspired me to lead with intention and stay focused. And my grandmother has always been a voice of wisdom and guidance. She keeps me grounded, reminds me to be thoughtful with my decisions, and encourages me to stay consistent even when the road gets tough.”
In addition, he’s learned from local business owners, contractors and other professionals in the industry. By observing how they interact with customers, structure their work and present themselves, Common has picked up valuable insights that continue to shape how he runs his business.
This fall, Common will be entering his junior year at Western High School. While balancing school and business will be a challenge, he’s confident in maintaining his strong routine of serving Kokomo-area clients reliably.
As his high school career continues, his goal is to continue growing Common Grounds Landscaping by investing in better equipment, expanding his service offerings, and possibly building a small team in the future. Long term, Common sees entrepreneurship as a path he wants to stay on.
“Whether it’s continuing with this business, pursuing other ventures like real estate or investing, or eventually owning multiple businesses, I want to remain in control of my future and keep building something that reflects who I am,” he says.
Common Grounds Landscaping & Lawn is available weekly for mowing, trimming and blow-off services starting at $40. You can contact Jamarion Common by calling or texting 765-513-8102. You can also visit facebook.com/CommonGroundsLawn for more information.
