The Biggest Mistakes New Entrepreneurs Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Starting a business is one of the most exciting and intimidating journeys you can take. As a mentor and entrepreneur who’s built and sold businesses, I’ve seen firsthand where new founders often stumble. The good news? With the right awareness, you can avoid these mistakes and set yourself up for success from the start!

Here are the biggest mistakes I see new entrepreneurs make, and what to do instead.

1. Trying to Do Everything Alone

It’s tempting to believe you need to wear every hat: CEO, bookkeeper, marketer, HR manager, and janitor. But spreading yourself too thin leads to burnout and sloppy execution.

Instead: Identify the areas you can outsource or get support with early on—like bookkeeping, branding, or ads—so you can stay focused on your strengths and vision.

2. Waiting Until Everything Is “Perfect”

Perfectionism kills momentum. Too many entrepreneurs delay launching because they want the website, logo, or product to be flawless. The truth? You’ll learn more by starting than by waiting.

Instead: Launch messy. Iterate as you go. Progress beats perfection every time.

3. Ignoring Finances

Many entrepreneurs focus on the fun parts—branding, product creation, or social media—while neglecting financial systems. Without clear numbers, you can’t measure growth or spot issues.

Instead: Set up simple financial tracking from day one. Even a basic spreadsheet or accounting software will help you understand cash flow, expenses, and profit margins.

4. Forgetting About Marketing

“If you build it, they will come” doesn’t work in business. You might have the best product or service, but without marketing, nobody knows you exist.

Instead: Develop a marketing plan before you launch. Focus on visibility—whether it’s Instagram, email marketing, blogs, or collaborations—so your ideal clients can actually find you.

5. Not Taking Care of Themselves

Entrepreneurs often run themselves into the ground trying to “hustle” their way to success. But if your energy is depleted, your business suffers too.

Instead: Protect your well-being. Rest, nourish yourself, and build routines that keep you balanced. A thriving business starts with a thriving you.

Final Thoughts

Every entrepreneur makes mistakes; it’s part of the learning process. The key is to learn quickly and keep moving forward. By avoiding these common traps, you’ll build your business on a stronger foundation and create something sustainable.

Remember guys: you don’t have to do it all alone. Mentorship, community, and support can make the journey not only easier, but more enjoyable.

👉 Ready to grow your business with clarity and confidence? Explore how I mentor entrepreneurs at Aunt Alesha and let’s create your next chapter together!