Starting a business can feel like a leap into the unknown. You’re filled with enthusiasm and hope, eager to bring your idea to life. However, as I’ve learned over several decades of entrepreneurship, there are many pitfalls along the way.

As Vernon Sanders Law wisely observed, “Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterwards.” Fortunately, I never made the same one twice. Each misstep taught me valuable lessons, shaping my journey and making me a better entrepreneur.

Here are some of the biggest mistakes I made when starting a business and what I learned from them.