Avoid These 5 Costly Mistakes Most New Entrepreneurs Regret

Let’s be real for a sec—starting a business is exciting, terrifying, and a little bit like jumping out of a plane… except you’re building your parachute on the way down. Sound familiar?

When I started, I thought I had it all figured out.

Spoiler alert: I did not. I made mistakes, learned the hard way, and now I want to save you from the same headaches.

So, grab a coffee (or a wine, no judgment), and let’s talk about the 5 biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make—and more importantly, how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Waiting for Everything to Be “Perfect”

You know that thing you’ve been working on forever? The website you keep tweaking? The product you’re scared to launch? Stop waiting.

Perfect doesn’t exist. Action > Perfection.

What to do instead:

✔ Launch messy. Adjust as you go.

✔ Test your idea with real customers before spending months (or $$$) making it “perfect.”

✔ Done is better than perfect. Get it out there, then improve it based on feedback.

Truth bomb: If you’re waiting for the perfect time, you’ll be waiting forever.

Mistake 2: Thinking "Everyone" Is Your Customer

“If I market to everyone, I’ll get more sales, right?” Wrong. Trying to appeal to everyone means you’ll stand out to no one.

What to do instead:

✔ Niche down. Who do you REALLY want to help?

✔ Talk directly to them. What are their struggles, goals, and dreams?

✔ Be specific. Instead of saying “I sell candles,” say “I help busy moms create a stress-free home with luxury candles.”

The clearer you are about WHO you serve, the easier it is to attract paying customers.

Mistake 3: Underpricing Yourself (Because "I’m New")

Oh baby, this one hurts. You put your heart and soul into your business, but when it’s time to charge… you panic.

❌ “Maybe I’ll just charge less so people will buy?”

❌ “I feel bad asking for too much…”

❌ “I’ll raise my prices later when I’m more experienced.”

Sound familiar? Let me tell you—if you don’t value your work, no one else will.

What to do instead:

✔ Price for profit, not survival. Your business should make money, not just pay bills.

✔ Consider your time, skills, and the transformation you provide.

✔ If people say you’re “too expensive,” you’re attracting the wrong audience.

Your dream clients will pay for VALUE, not just a low price tag.

Mistake 4: Trying to Do Everything Alone

I get it—you’re the CEO, marketer, designer, accountant, and customer service rep all in one. But here’s the thing: Burnout is not a business strategy.

What to do instead:

✔ Outsource sooner. Even if it’s just small tasks, free up your time for growth.

✔ Automate what you can. Tools like Notion, Asana, or even email templates save HOURS.

✔ Find a mentor or community. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

The fastest-growing businesses aren’t run solo. They have systems and support.

Mistake 5: Thinking "If I Build It, They Will Come"

You launch your business, post once on Instagram, and… crickets. No customers, no engagement, no sales. What gives?

People don’t just “find” you—you have to actively market your business!

What to do instead:

✔ Talk about your offer DAILY. (Yes, daily!)

✔ Build relationships. Engage with your audience, don’t just sell to them.

✔ Give value before asking for a sale. Teach, inspire, entertain—then sell.

The more visible you are, the easier sales become.

Final Thoughts: Every Business Owner Makes Mistakes—Just Don’t Make These Ones

If you’ve already made one (or all) of these mistakes, you’re not alone. The key is to learn fast, adapt, and keep moving forward.

Now tell me—which mistake have you been guilty of? Or, which one are you committing to avoiding? Let’s chat in the comments!

Big love,