Is your self-worth tied to MRR?

At the end of 2020, during the pandemic, I left a six-figure position to pursue independent product development. The initial plan was straightforward: build SaaS products until achieving significant traction. Previously, I had documented my motivations and first product launch, but hadn't shared subsequent learnings.

Lesson 1: SaaS is a long game

Thread Creator launched on Product Hunt roughly one year prior. The product gained over 4,000 users and 140 paid subscriptions. Despite this progress, the product only achieved ramen profitability after a full year. SaaS development follows "the long, slow, SaaS ramp of death."

Lesson 2: Survivorship bias is a dangerous trap

When building products, founders often draw motivation from visible successes. However, overnight success DOES NOT EXIST. It may appear that way, but these folks have often spent years working on projects and building an audience, as well as experiencing numerous failures and false starts.

The example of Pieter Levels illustrates this point—he built approximately 100 projects before finding success with only 3-4 ventures.

Lesson 3: Don't be afraid to move on

Following Thread Creator's launch, I built and released additional products that underperformed. Rather than viewing this negatively, I reframe abandonment as strategic resource allocation: if motivation diminishes and metrics stall, moving forward makes sense.

Lesson 4: Set milestones and measure them

Success metrics should be established before development begins. These targets vary based on personal goals and business type. When projects fail to meet predetermined benchmarks, founders should evaluate objectively and pivot or discontinue accordingly.

Lesson 5: Don't quit your job

I advise against immediate full-time transition. Creating viable businesses is inherently difficult, particularly under financial pressure. Building side projects first provides learning opportunities and generates runway before committing fully.

Lesson 6: Loneliness is the mind killer

The emotional and mental dimensions of solo founding receive insufficient attention in entrepreneurial communities. Isolation intensifies challenges. I recommend joining communities like WIP and Makerlog, emphasizing that human interaction is so important, and the further you go on this journey, the more you will realize this.

Co-founders provide mutual accountability and support.

Lesson 7: Your self worth should not be linked to your MRR

Monthly churn creates emotional fluctuations. I experienced mood swings corresponding to customer cancellations. Recognizing that "I am NOT my MRR" proved essential for maintaining psychological resilience.

Bonus Lesson: Rome wasn't built in a day

After one year as an indie founder, I haven't achieved multimillion-dollar status yet remain committed. The journey encompasses both "heartbreakingly difficult" moments and "Everest summitingly inspiring" achievements.