I’ve been living inside my own head a lot this year. Thinking and plotting. Trying to figure out how to turn an idea into a company. Sure, I built a product and have the people in place to go forward but I want to do it right. Now, I’m aware that speed is important in startups as is being first. But I also know from experience that you want to get it right. It’s true that you only get one chance to make a great impression. This whole build it, see what happens and if it doesn’t work, pivot (my least favorite word), may work if you’re a young, first time entrepreneur but it doesn’t work for me.

When I build something, I want it to work. To grow. To succeed. And to do that, especially if it’s something new. An idea that goes against conventional thinking, well, you need to take time to figure out the how.

How will you break through the noise? How will you not only get attention but also create habits? How will you make money? How will you attract smart folks to your team? And how will you do all of that without giving up control because you’re constantly giving away pieces of your company to investors?

And so, I started looking at doing things differently. The idea is exactly the same. It just takes a different journey. Instead of going straight to consumers (expensive given escalating user acquisition costs), I’m creating corporate and strategic partnerships. A win-win.

Sometimes, slowing down can get you there. Just not at the same speed. But then again, this is a marathon. And what matters is getting to the finish line.