7 Tips to Stay Confident When Your Startup Isn’t Making Money Yet

1. Remember Why You Started

The passion and reason behind your startup are what motivated you in the first place. When things get tough, remind yourself why you chose this path. What problem are you solving? What impact do you want to make? Connecting with your original purpose will help keep you going.

• Tip: Write down your goals and the reasons why you started. Place them somewhere visible to remind yourself daily.

2. Focus on Small Wins

Even if you aren’t making money yet, every step forward is a win. Did you complete a new project? Get a positive comment from a potential customer? Finish your website? Celebrate these small achievements. They show that you’re moving in the right direction.

• Tip: Keep a journal or list of all your small victories, no matter how small. Reflecting on these can boost your confidence.

3. Set Realistic Goals

Sometimes, we set goals that are too big or unrealistic, which can lead to disappointment when they aren’t reached quickly. Instead, break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieving these smaller goals will make you feel more successful and keep your confidence high.

• Tip: Create a weekly to-do list with small tasks that contribute to your bigger goals. Cross off each task as you complete it to feel a sense of accomplishment.

4. Learn From Setbacks

Failure is a natural part of the startup journey. Instead of seeing setbacks as signs of defeat, view them as learning opportunities. Every mistake teaches you something valuable for the future. Stay confident by recognizing that challenges are part of the process.

• Tip: After any setback, take time to reflect on what went wrong and what you can learn from it. Adjust your strategy and keep moving forward.

5. Surround Yourself with Support

It’s important to have people around you who believe in your vision. Friends, family, or even fellow entrepreneurs can provide encouragement when you’re feeling low. Sharing your journey with others can make the process feel less lonely and boost your confidence.

• Tip: Join online forums, attend networking events, or create a small group of like-minded individuals to share experiences and gain support.

6. Stay Focused on Your Vision

Building a startup is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easy to get caught up in the short-term lack of income, but focus on the long-term vision instead. Confidence comes from knowing that you’re on the right path, even if the rewards take time to arrive.

• Tip: Create a vision board or digital document where you can visualize your long-term goals. Include images, quotes, and ideas that inspire you to stay motivated.

7. Invest in Your Personal Growth

Learning new skills and improving your knowledge can boost your confidence. Take time to invest in personal development, whether it’s through books, online courses, or mentorship. The more you grow, the more capable you’ll feel in your startup journey.

• Tip: Set aside time each week to read, watch educational videos, or work with a mentor to continue growing.

Conclusion

Running a startup without income can be challenging, but confidence is built through persistence, small wins, and focusing on your long-term vision. By celebrating progress, learning from setbacks, and surrounding yourself with support, you can stay motivated and confident in your work. Remember, success takes time, and each step you take brings you closer to your goals.

Resources

• Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W. H. Freeman.

• Baumeister, R. F., & Vohs, K. D. (2003). Willpower, choice, and self-control. In G. Loewenstein, D. Read, & R. F. Baumeister (Eds.), Time and decision: Economic and psychological perspectives on intertemporal choice (pp. 201-216). Russell Sage Foundation.

• Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance. Scribner.