Starting a business is exciting, filled with ideas, energy, and the thrill of building something meaningful. You’ve likely invested time, money, and thought into your concept. But what happens next matters most.
But here’s the truth: the first 90 days are crucial. What you do in these first three months can shape the future of your business.
Let’s keep it real and simple, here’s what you really need to focus on.
1. Validate That There’s Real Demand for Your Offering
It’s easy to get attached to our own ideas. But what really counts is whether others see value in it, and are willing to pay for it.
Speak to real people, preferably potential customers, not close friends or family. Ask about the problems they’re facing. Does your product or service solve any of them?
Try offering a basic version of what you have. Even if it’s simple, your goal is to learn: does someone find it useful enough to invest in?
2. Write Down a Simple Plan, Clear Plan
Don’t worry about making a fancy business plan. take a page and jot down:
- Who you’re helping
- What problem you’re solving
- How you’ll make money
- How people will find you
- What you’ll get done in the next 90 days
This isn’t for pitching investors, it’s for you. It brings clarity, focus, and direction when things feel uncertain.
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3. Break the 90 Days into 3 Easy Parts
Here’s a smart way to handle your time:
Days 1–30
- Finalize your idea
- Set up a basic website or landing page
- Create a simple version of your product enough to show
Days 31–60
- Talk to potential customers
- Try selling to a few people
- Gather meaningful feedback
Days 61–90
- Improve based on feedback
- Start posting regularly on social media
- Get ready to grow
Don’t aim for perfection, consistency is more important at this point.
4. Keep a Close Eye on Your Cash
In the early days, it’s easy to overspend, signing up for tools, paying for minor services, or hiring help too quickly.
Create a simple budget. Track every dollar or rupee. Spend only on essentials, things that help you test, sell, or improve.
Track every rupee or dollar. Spend only on what helps you test or sell. Use free tools when possible. Google Docs, Canva, Notion, there’s a tool for everything, and many are free.
According to a study, 82% of small businesses fail because of poor money management. Stay smart and learn.
5. Start Telling Your Story, Even Before You’re Ready
Don’t wait until everything is perfect to start sharing your journey. People love following the behind-the-scenes of a new business.
Post on Instagram, LinkedIn, or wherever your people are. Share your wins and struggles. This builds trust. It also helps you attract your first customers organically.
Remember: You don’t need a huge audience. You need the right few.
6. Talk to the People Who Buy From You
If someone buys from you, celebrate that, and then follow up. Ask what they liked, what confused them, and what could be better.
This feedback is gold. It’ll help you fix things fast and build something people actually love.
Happy customers will also tell their friends. Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of marketing.
7. Stop Trying to Do Everything Alone
At first, you’ll wear many hats. But that doesn’t mean you should burn out.
Automate small tasks (like sending welcome emails). Hire a freelancer for stuff you’re not good at, maybe design, writing, or website tweaks. Focus on the things only you can do, making big decisions and building relationships.
There’s no prize for doing it all yourself. The real win is building something that works.
8. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
You’re going to feel overwhelmed sometimes. That’s normal.
Make time to rest. Take breaks. Go outside. Talk to someone when you’re stressed.
Your business can’t grow if you’re running on empty. The founder, you, matters the most.
Your First 90 Days Matter More Than You Think
The first 90 days are about more than action, they’re about building a solid foundation.
Focus on:
- Validating your idea with real customers
- Creating a clear, simple plan
- Structuring your time effectively
- Managing your finances smartly
- Starting to market early
- Gathering customer feedback
- Delegating where needed
- Taking care of yourself
Whether you’re starting small or aiming big, these steps will keep you focused and steady.
Start strong. Build smart. Grow with purpose
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