The 3 Most Common Mistakes Young Entrepreneurs Make & How To Avoid Them

Starting your first business feels like stepping into a whole new world. Exciting? Absolutely. But let’s face it, it’s also overwhelming. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes, and I’ve learned that it’s part of the process. The key is to make mistakes that teach you something and avoid the ones that don’t.

If you’re a new entrepreneur, here are three common mistakes to watch out for, and ways to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Focusing on Everything at Once

When I co-founded DiscoverSTEM, I wanted to do it all—launch new initiatives, market everything, and solve every problem at once. The result? I ended up stretched too thin, with half-done projects piling up and progress stalling.

How to Avoid It? Prioritize and focus:

Pick one high-impact task and execute it fully before moving on. Ask yourself, What’s the one thing I can complete this week to drive results? Success doesn’t come from juggling—it comes from completing.

Mistake 2: Avoiding Feedback

Early on, I hesitated to share ideas because I feared they weren’t “good enough.” But feedback—especially the critical kind—is what sharpens your thinking and improves your product. At DiscoverSTEM, feedback from mentors transformed rough ideas into scalable innovations.

How to Avoid It: Seek input early.

Engage mentors, peers, or even potential customers to critique your ideas. Constructive feedback can save you time and steer you toward better solutions.

Mistake 3: Underestimating the Value of Relationships

At 17, I thought sheer determination would be enough. But I learned quickly that success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. Strong relationships with the right people can accelerate your growth.

How to Avoid It: Build a supportive network.

Invest in relationships with mentors, team members, and peers who challenge and inspire you. Surround yourself with people who push you to grow and support your vision.

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs

Mistakes are inevitable in entrepreneurship, but they don’t have to be setbacks. Learn from them, adapt, and keep moving forward.

Pro Tips for Entrepreneurs:

• Focus on high-impact tasks that deliver results.
• Embrace feedback—it’s a growth tool, not a critique.
• Build relationships that support your personal and professional growth.

Final Thought

Your entrepreneurial journey will be full of lessons, both big and small. The key is to turn those lessons into fuel for your next step.

What’s a mistake you’ve learned from as an entrepreneur? Share it below—I’d love to hear your story!