“It didn’t work out.” I’ve heard this phrase countless times from entrepreneurs who tried something once and gave up.
But here’s the thing: a single unsuccessful attempt isn’t failure. Failure only happens when you stop trying altogether.
The Difference Between Persistence and Stubbornness
This isn’t a call for blind, headstrong persistence. Banging your head against a wall won’t bring it down if your approach is wrong.
The real lesson: recognize when a strategy isn’t working, step back, and find another way. In my youth, I was too focused on single paths. When that path proved impassable, I gave up entirely – instead of looking for alternatives.
Why I Cut My Safety Net
Growing up in Norway with a strong social safety net, failure felt less consequential. Comfortable, but it lacked the urgency that drives innovation.
So I made a bold decision: I moved to Poland with one client and barely enough money to survive. No safety net. Success or complete breakdown – no middle ground.
The Early Days
I arrived with a single client whose business depended on their Google rankings. The revenue didn’t cover basic living expenses.
The pressure was immense. So I started reaching out to everyone I knew:
“Believe in my ability to deliver top Google rankings. Let me show you the tangible impact on your business.”
We got two or three more clients. Barely enough to survive. The margin was razor-thin. But we kept going.
What I Learned
Adaptability beats stubbornness
When one door closes, don’t just stand there. Look for windows, other doors, or build a new entrance.
Necessity drives innovation
Removing comfort and safety nets can be the catalyst for extraordinary effort.
Results matter
In business, delivering value speaks louder than intentions. Do the work, show the results.
Setbacks aren’t endings
They’re part of the process. The only real failure is deciding to stop.
The Bottom Line
The journey from one client and financial precarity to a thriving business was paved with relentless effort, strategic pivots, and refusing to accept defeat.
True failure isn’t a setback. It’s the decision to stop moving forward. 🎯