How to Choose a Business Idea That Actually Works
Let’s face it—choosing a business idea can feel huge. You’ve probably heard all kinds of advice, like “follow your passion” or “just start something.” But if you’ve ever sat there thinking, “Great, but what do I actually do?”—you’re not alone.
Here’s the truth: The best businesses solve problems people already have. That’s it. Forget the fancy stuff. Let me walk you through how to pick an idea that has a real shot at success, without all the fluff.
Step 1: Think About Problems, Not Passions
Here’s the deal: It’s not about what you like—it’s about what other people need. I learned this the hard way when I tried to sell mindset and meditation classes in college. (Spoiler: no one cared.)
Instead, ask yourself:
- “What frustrates people?”
- “What’s missing in their lives that I could create?”
- “What would make someone’s day just a little bit easier?”
People aren’t out there looking to fund your hobby. They’re trying to solve their own problems. Find one of those problems, and you’ve got a starting point.
Step 2: Talk to Real People
Seriously—go talk to your friends, family, coworkers, the guy at the coffee shop. Ask them:
- “What’s something that really annoys you?”
- “If you could wave a magic wand and fix one problem, what would it be?”
I once asked a buddy this, and he went on a 10-minute rant about how much he hated cooking. Lightbulb moment: there’s an entire market for services like pre-made meal plans or part-time home chef. You’d be amazed at the goldmine of ideas just sitting in people’s everyday complaints.
Step 3: Create a Prototype (Even If It’s Ugly)
Okay, now that you’ve got an idea, don’t overthink it. Just make a basic version of your product or service—this is your Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
For example:
- If you’re offering a service (like relationship coaching or career counseling), offer to help someone for free or $20.
- If it’s a product, slap together a rough version with whatever materials you’ve got.
Here’s a tip: Your first attempt doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, it shouldn’t be perfect. The whole point is to test whether anyone even wants what you’re offering.
Step 4: Get Your First Customer (Yes, Even if You Work for Free)
This is where most people freeze up. They think they need to go all-in with a fancy website, logos, and business cards. Nope. Your goal right now is simple: help one person.
Reach out to someone you know and say, “Hey, I’m trying something new. Would you be willing to let me help you with [problem]?”
For example, when I started freelancing as a hypnotherapist consultant, my first “client” was a friend who l worked with for free . That experience gave me the confidence to charge my next client $100—and eventually a lot more.
Step 5: Build Momentum, One Step at a Time
Here’s the fun part. Once you’ve helped one person, try helping five more. Then ten. Start small, but gradually increase your prices as you gain experience and proof that your idea works.
For example:
- Help one person for free or $10.
- Help five people for $20 each.
- Help ten people for $50 each.
Each step not only builds your skills but also gives you social proof (a.k.a. people who can vouch for your work). By the time you’re helping your tenth client, you’ll have more confidence—and more cash coming in.
Why This Works
This method works because it’s grounded in reality. You’re not guessing whether your idea will succeed—you’re testing it, improving it, and growing it bit by bit.
Too many people get stuck in the planning phase, thinking they need everything figured out before they start. But the truth is, starting small and learning as you go is way more effective.
And honestly? It’s less stressful.
Take Action Today
Choosing the right business idea doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by identifying a problem, testing a simple solution, and helping one person at a time. This step-by-step approach will help you gain confidence and grow your business naturally.
Have questions or need guidance? Join our group for more tips and insights on turning your ideas into reality. Let’s make it happen!
