Startup Founders: It’s Not About Perfection

First-time founders can feel overwhelmed and discouraged that they don’t have all the answers from the outset. It’s important to understand that not every founder comes out of the gate with all the direction, clarity, and resources they need to succeed.

Many founders, even successful serial entrepreneurs, take time to find their groove and hone in on their solution. Finding your market, distribution strategy, and sales motion can take years, and that’s okay. It’s important to find a mentor or community to help you on your journey and to know where to prioritize your focus.

As startup luminary Steve Blank says, “Startups are not smaller versions of large companies. They are a temporary organization designed to search for a scalable and repeatable business model.” This means that it’s not necessary to have everything figured out from day one. Instead, it’s about experimenting, learning, and iterating until you find what works.

One example of a company that took time to find its way is Airbnb. The founders struggled for years to find product-market fit and to build a user base. They eventually discovered that professional photography was key to helping hosts attract more guests, and the rest is history.

So, if you’re a first-time founder feeling overwhelmed and discouraged, know that it’s okay to take your time and let your idea come to fruition. Surround yourself with a supportive community and focus on experimentation and learning.