Why Chasing Popularity is Killing New Startups
Solving invisible problems often leads to visible success
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Want to Start a Business? Stop Chasing Popularity.
I recently attended a business networking meeting and had a chance conversation with someone who’s successfully invested in over 10 businesses. A true serial entrepreneur.
Naturally, I asked him:
“What’s the biggest mistake people make when starting a business today?”
His answer was brutally honest — and deeply insightful.
The Harsh Truth About Today’s Entrepreneurs
He said, “Most people are solving problems not for the customer — but for social currency.”
They want media coverage.
They want to go viral on social media.
They want the glamour that comes with startup fame.
But they forget the most important question: Is this solving a real problem for someone who’s ready to pay for it?
What Real Entrepreneurs Focus On
Here’s the simple truth he shared, “If you want to build a successful business, stop looking for the most ‘popular’ idea. Instead, look for the most painful problem that no one is talking about.”
The boring industries often have the least competition.
The quiet niches often have the highest profit margins.
The real value lies in solving, not showcasing.
Your Takeaway
If you're thinking of starting a business:
Look for outcomes, not likes.
Choose impact, not attention.
Focus on solving, not selling stories.
Ask yourself, “Am I solving a real problem… or am I just building a brand around an idea that looks cool online?”
Conclusion
Time to be honest. How would you rate your business development/ entrepreneurial journey? Are you building to solve a real problem for your ideal customer profile, or have you been bitten by the “I want to be the most popular entrepreneur in my industry” bug? Want to realign? I offer 1:1 to growing businesses and content creators. Want to know how I can help you grow? Feel free to reach out to me and let’s connect.Your Thoughts!
If you’ve reached till this point of the post, I’m sure you must have some thoughts/ feelings/ opinions about what you’ve just read.
I’m done sharing what’s on my mind, and now is your turn to share your POV.
Tell me how you are processing the information that you’ve just read?
Do you agree with my thoughts?
Do you think I missed something important?
Do you disagree with something in particular?
Let’s continue this conversation (or ask your questions about the post) in the comments below.
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Prompt used to create the image for the note
P.S.: Image made on Meta AI using the prompt, “Imagine two business owners in their 30s. One is working really hard to provide best possible value to the target customer and the other is just busy trying to create content and gain more followers on social media and become more popular”