Starting a business is exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s also a little overwhelming. There are so many decisions to make, from pricing to marketing, that it’s easy to feel stuck before you even begin. The good news? It doesn’t have to be so complicated.

Here are three key things every new or aspiring entrepreneur needs to know to set themselves up for success.

1. Starting a Business vs. Launching a Business 🚀

There’s a huge difference between starting a business and launching one. You don’t just want to register an LLC, slap together a website, and hope for the best. That’s “starting.” To truly launch a business, you need a plan—a real strategy that makes sure your hard work turns into actual results.

Ask yourself:

• Who am I trying to help?
• How will I stand out?
• What’s my goal for the first 90 days?

With a plan in place, you’ll move from just “having a business” to running one that actually grows.

2. Where Will You Get Your First Customers? 💡

Let’s be clear: not all customers are created equal. It’s one thing to sell to anyone willing to pay; it’s another to attract customers who see the value in your work and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Premium customers aren’t just great for revenue—they often become your biggest advocates, helping you grow even faster. So think strategically:

• Who needs what you offer most?
• Where are they hanging out (online or offline)?
• What’s going to make them say, “Yes, that’s for me”?

Your first customers set the tone for your business. Focus on the right ones, and you’ll build momentum faster.

3. How Will You Fund Your Growth? 💸

No matter how lean you want to run your business, there’s going to be some cost involved—whether it’s for tools, ads, or even just your time. The question is, where will that money come from?

Do you have savings to invest? A side hustle to support you? Are you open to loans or grants? Knowing this upfront takes the stress out of managing finances later.

Bonus Tip: If you’re bootstrapping, focus on the essentials that help you grow first, like getting paying customers. Fancy tools and extras can come later.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business doesn’t have to feel like guesswork. When you approach it strategically—knowing the difference between starting and launching, how to get premium customers, and where to find funding—you’re already ahead of the game.

Once you’re prepared to take the next step, here’s a little extra support:

• Watch the video on launching your business in 90 days or less for even more tips.
• Ready to talk about your goals? Book a free call with me and my team.

It’s time to turn your ideas into action—let’s make it happen!

To your success,

Nicholas Marque