Starting a business can feel like chasing a dream—freedom, creativity, passion. But beneath the highlight reel is a lot of real talk that doesn’t get enough air time. So let’s change that.

*Starting a business can be exciting, but also challenging. You think you’re prepared for ever scenario, but change is the only constant.*

Here are the truths you deserve to hear before (or while) building your business…because knowing what’s coming can make all the difference.

1. Clarity is a process, not a prerequisite

You don’t have to have it all figured out before you begin. Most successful entrepreneurs start with an idea, then refine it, pivot, and adapt it over time.

TAKEAWAY: Progress > perfection. Start messy. You’ll figure it out.

2. Your mindset will make or break you

Business is 80% mental. Self-doubt, impostor syndrome, and burnout? They’re real. But so is your ability to push through.

Surround yourself with people who get it. And don’t be afraid to ask for help.

TAKEAWAY: Find a local entrepreneur group or industry association. You can also check out The Foundry Lab.

3. You’ll spend more time marketing than doing “the thing”

Love baking, designing, or coaching? Great. But you’ll spend just as much time (if not more) promoting your work as you will doing it. Learn to love visibility because it’s the lifeblood of your business.

TAKEAWAY: Brush up on your PR, digital marketing, and social media skills. Or consider hiring a fractional CMO (more info here).

4. You’ll also spend a lot of time on other operational and administrative functions.

Get comfortable with numbers. From your balance sheet to invoicing to payroll and contractors, take it from us: stay on top of everything. Come tax time, your life will be so much easier if your finances are in shape.

Same goes for your team. Whether you work with contractors or employ full- or part-time employees, it’s easy to shuffle busywork to others without being strategic. When you’re an owner and/or founder, the big ideas are often in your head, but sometimes, you can’t effectively translate that vision to the people you hired to help you execute it. Resentment can lead to everything from mismanagement to double work to efficiency gaps to resentment all around.

5. The people closest to you might not get it

Some friends or family may question your choices. It’s okay. They don’t have to understand your vision. You do. Surround yourself with others who speak the language of entrepreneurship.

6. There is no “right” way—just the right way for you

There’s so much advice out there (some of it contradictory). What works for someone else may not be your path. That’s quite all right.

Be curious, stay grounded, and test until you find your flow.

7. You don’t need to go big to be successful

A six-figure launch? A giant team? Viral growth? None of that defines success.

Small, sustainable, profitable businesses are powerful…especially if the one you run fits into your lifestyle.

8. You’re allowed to change your mind

Your niche. Your brand. Your direction. Your definition of success. You’re allowed to evolve as you grow.

Final Thoughts

Entrepreneurship is gritty, glorious, confusing, and exhilarating. But when you have the right tools, community, and support, you’re not just building a business, you’re building something that lasts.

You don’t need fluff. You need real talk and practical tools. That’s what we’re here for.

Your Next Step

Download our Real Talk Checklist: “10 Things No One Tells You About Starting a Business (But Should)”

Keep it handy for those days when you wonder if you’re the only one struggling (spoiler: you’re not).

What No One Tells You About Starting a Business (But Should)