I went back over a number of the pitches for new businesses that had been presented to me over the last few years. I spoke to a lot of the founders. Many of them failed, some are in intensive care, one or two are truly starting to get traction.

I looked at the reasons those that failed, failed and here they are:-

Lack of experience: Many first-time entrepreneurs lack the necessary experience to manage a business successfully. Starting a business requires a broad range of skills, including financial management, marketing, and leadership. Without this experience, it can be challenging to navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business.

Insufficient capital: Starting a business requires money, and many first-time entrepreneurs underestimate the amount of capital they need. Without enough capital, it can be challenging to pay for expenses like marketing, product development, and overhead costs. This can lead to cash flow problems, which can ultimately result in the failure of the business.

Poor planning: Many first-time entrepreneurs fail to plan adequately for their business. This includes developing a clear business plan, identifying target customers, and defining the products or services they will offer. Without a solid plan, it can be challenging to execute effectively and achieve success.

Inability to adapt: Markets can be unpredictable, and first-time entrepreneurs may struggle to adapt to changing market conditions. This can result in missed opportunities or a failure to pivot quickly enough to remain competitive.

Personal or emotional issues: Personal issues, such as family problems or mental health issues, can also affect decision-making and the ability to manage a business effectively.

Overall, failure is often a necessary part of the entrepreneurial journey. Many successful entrepreneurs have experienced failure before achieving success, and the lessons learned from these experiences can be invaluable in future ventures. So my advice, get back on the horse if you possibly can, find a way.

Why startups fail