The courage to build something new
In every town, every apartment, and every late-night conversation between friends, there’s a spark—a moment when someone says, “What if we started something?” It’s a question that has launched countless startups, changed lives, and reshaped industries. But behind that spark lies a deeper story: one of courage, uncertainty, and the relentless pursuit of possibility.
Starting a business is rarely a polished process. It often begins with frustration, a desire for change, or a moment of inspiration that feels too good to ignore. The journey can start in casual conversations in living rooms. Two friends sitting in a modest apartment, sipping coffee, and dreaming of a better future may not look like the beginning of a company—but it is.
The idea itself doesn’t have to be revolutionary. In fact, many successful startups are built on simple concepts—making life easier, solving everyday problems, or combining existing services more smartly. What matters most is execution, timing, and the belief that something better is possible. It’s not always about inventing something new; sometimes, it’s about improving what already exists. The magic lies in seeing the gap, understanding the need, and having the courage to act.
One powerful insight in the startup world is the value of convenience. People are busy. They want solutions that save time, reduce stress, and simplify their lives. Whether it’s a delivery service that’s faster, an app that’s easier to use, or a product that solves a nagging problem, convenience wins. But ideas alone aren’t enough. The real challenge is convincing others—partners, customers, investors—that your vision is worth betting on. That’s where storytelling, branding, and strategy come in. A strong brand name, a clear tagline, and a compelling pitch can turn a casual idea into a serious venture.
Still, even with a solid plan, doubt creeps in. “What if we fail?” is a question every entrepreneur asks. It’s valid. Startups are risky. They demand time, money, and emotional energy. They disrupt routines and challenge comfort zones. They ask you to trade stability for possibility. But the more powerful question is, “What if we succeed?” That shift in mindset—from fear to possibility—is what fuels innovation. It’s what turns hesitation into momentum and transforms uncertainty into action.
Support systems matter too. A partner who believes in the dream, a friend who’s willing to leap, or a spouse who says, “I’m all for it”. Entrepreneurship is rarely a solo journey. It’s built on relationships, trust, and shared ambition. The people around you—those who cheer you on, challenge your thinking, and stand by you when things get tough—are just as important as the idea itself.
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And then there’s the decision to seek advice. Pride can be a barrier, especially when past experiences with mentors or former employers are complicated. But wisdom often comes from those who’ve walked the path before. Seeking guidance doesn’t mean weakness; it means maturity. It means recognising that while you may have the drive, others may have the map. Learning from others, whether through books, podcasts, conversations, or mentorship, can save time, prevent mistakes, and offer clarity when the road ahead feels foggy.
The startup journey is also about identity. It’s about shifting from employee to founder, from task-doer to decision-maker. That transition is thrilling, but it’s also daunting. Hiring staff, managing operations, and building a team require more than vision—they require leadership. And leadership begins with self-awareness, humility, and a willingness to learn. It’s about making tough calls, staying grounded, and being open to feedback. It’s about growing not just a business, but yourself.
What’s most inspiring is how quickly things can change. One day, you’re stuck in a job that drains you. Next, you’re sketching logos and planning launch strategies. That’s the beauty of entrepreneurship—it’s dynamic, unpredictable, and full of potential. It’s not just about building a business; it’s about building a life you’re proud of. It’s about waking up with purpose, knowing that what you’re creating has meaning.
And yes, there will be setbacks. There will be moments when things don’t go as planned, when the funding doesn’t come through, or when the product doesn’t perform. But those moments are part of the process. They teach resilience, adaptability, and grit. They remind you why you started and push you to keep going.
In the end, the startup world is about creating something that matters, starting from wherever you are, with whatever you have. It isn’t reserved for Silicon Valley or billion-dollar ideas. It’s for anyone with the courage to say, “Let’s do this.” It’s for those who reach for the stars, knowing that even if they fall, they’ll land on the moon.
So if you’ve ever had that spark, that moment of inspiration over coffee or a conversation that made you think, “We could do this”, don’t ignore it. That might be the beginning of your story. And who knows? It could be the start of something extraordinary. Because every great company, every bold idea, and every inspiring journey begins with a simple decision: to believe in the possibility of something new.
Kemi Buluro is the founder of every1has.com. She is an organisational development professional who partners with global companies—from Fortune 500s to startups—to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and foster innovation. She also runs Elikris, a startup that creates games (like everyone has) that improve people’s connections.
