Alex Cloudstar

How do you know when it’s time to give up on a startup idea?

You’ve put in the hours.

You shipped the MVP.

You posted on all the platforms.

You got some users. Or maybe not.

And now you’re stuck wondering…

Should I keep going?

Or is this one done?

How do you personally decide when to stop working on an idea?

• Do you look at traction?

• Feedback?

• Motivation?

• Gut feeling?

I’ve had projects that got users but no feedback.

Others got feedback but no users.

And a few where I just lost all interest overnight.

Curious how others approach this moment.

What’s your signal to walk away?

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Talshyn Nova

If the required caffeine level is higher than my user count, it might be time 😅

Nika

IMO, when you tried everything, including extensive marketing efforts aimed at your ICP and potential user calls, but no one is interested, it is a sign that there is no demand at the moment. Usually, when the product is needed, some people try it and buy it.

Personally, I think it is better to:
– bet on more projects at the beginning so you can move on with that one that was the "most successful"

– have a co-founder (or buddy) who helps you to be sustainable with the project (beginnings are difficult), and such support is priceless.

Alex Cloudstar

@busmark_w_nika 

That’s a solid take.

I’ve had projects where I did outreach, cold DMs, posted in all the right spots, and still got crickets.

Sometimes there really is just no demand, no matter how hard you push.

Also really agree with starting a few small bets and seeing which one gets traction.

Having someone beside you to keep the momentum up is a game changer.

Nika

@alex_cloudstar I hope you will achieve something huge with your project :)

Mahindra Pasman

I usually walk away when I realize I'm more in love with the idea than the problem it solves. If I don't feel the problem deeply, traction rarely matters.

Alex Cloudstar

@mahindra_pasman 

Totally get that.

I’ve chased a few ideas just because they “sounded cool” but never felt close enough to the problem.

It always catches up with you. No amount of traction can replace actual conviction.

Hassan

The moment it feels like I'm dragging a dead horse, I give up and start fresh.

Alex Cloudstar

@hassan783 

Felt that.

Sometimes the best signal is just the energy drop.

If it feels forced every day, it’s probably time to move on.