That person said no-one would ever buy what I’m selling. Now part of me wants to give up
Ooft, I get it. Other people putting you and your hard work down is tough. It can be so demoralising when someone speaks badly about a thing you’ve worked hard on.
And, especially if you’re already a bit worried about its desirability, one small comment is enough to tip things over the edge.
Some things to think about:
- People often speak in absolutes, to avoid vulnerability. But nothing in life is absolute. Practice translating someone’s absolute “your product is pointless” into what they’re really trying to communicate: “I’m having a hard time seeing how me / my friends would use it”
- Someone saying something doesn’t make it true. Is there evidence to support/refute what they’re saying? Pay much more attention to that than an unsolicited opinion. If there isn’t evidence… work on getting some, to prove to others and yourself whether what you’re doing is viable. Until then the anecdotes (for or against your product) are worthless
- Let’s say the thing you’re creating is a vegan ice-cream brand. Someone tells you they’re not interested. That’s totally OK! Most people aren’t vegan! A product that appeals strongly to a small group is so much easier to sell than something for everyone. Even if it could be for everyone, intentionally narrowing your audience will make initial research, marketing, distribution so much easier
