Why Being "Late" to a Business or Platform is Not a Dealbreaker
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Understanding the Myth of "Too Late"
In the world of business, platforms, and investments, there's always someone claiming it's too late to make money. You can easily find discussions online by searching "is it too late for X," where you'll encounter countless people advising against pursuing various ventures. This narrative has circulated around YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, cryptocurrencies, the stock market, and even straightforward businesses like ice cream shops, due to perceived saturation.
Critics often lament about unfavorable algorithms, market overcrowding, and diminishing returns. I've even been guilty of advising against entering certain businesses, labeling them as unworthy for 2023-2024, such as Airbnb or Amazon drop shipping.
However, regardless of my views or those of influential figures, here's why you shouldn't let this deter you if you aspire to earn through a platform or business: these environments are constantly evolving, creating fresh chances for newcomers to shine.
The Constant Evolution of Platforms
Social media platforms frequently update their algorithms, allowing new participants to go viral. Each platform, without exception, has undergone algorithm changes over time—sometimes due to obsolescence, legal issues, or shifts in leadership.
For instance, prior to 2012, YouTube primarily ranked videos by view count, but later shifted to prioritize watch time and session duration. In 2016, they implemented AI to recommend similar content. Instagram, before 2017, displayed posts chronologically but transitioned to relevance-based visibility. Facebook's algorithm also changed in response to legal concerns surrounding the U.S. elections, while Twitter updated its algorithm this year to reflect new ownership strategies. Even Medium has adjusted its algorithm recently.
The implication here is clear: strategies that once worked may no longer apply, offering you the opportunity to thrive with a fresh approach.
As you consider the effects of these algorithm changes, you'll find that many previously overlooked content creators have gained visibility and popularity. Thus, it's never truly "too late" if you understand how to navigate these updates.
The Importance of Fresh Talent
Another crucial aspect is that many seasoned creators eventually step back or lose interest in a platform. If no new creators had joined YouTube since its inception, it might have faded away by now. Reflect on your own viewing habits: many YouTubers you once enjoyed may no longer resonate with you as their styles evolve or they exit the platform.
Consumer preferences shift constantly, prompting a desire for new perspectives and ideas. Even if you join a platform later, quality content that resonates with viewers can still attract a following, regardless of the competition.
In business sectors like course creation, there's always a demand for updated content. Outdated courses on growing an Instagram following from 2015 no longer hold value, presenting opportunities for fresh, relevant courses to succeed.
For instance, I followed a YouTuber who abandoned her channel, claiming it was no longer viable. She had previously earned $8,000 a month but found her income dropping to between $2,000 and $4,000 due to algorithm changes. At that time, I was making $800 monthly. This revelation helped me realize that what seems unworthy to some may present enormous potential for others.
Long-Term Investment Perspectives
When it comes to investments, new opportunities arise regardless of timing. If you're committed to a long-term approach, the timing of your entry is less critical. Every time an investment reaches a peak, you'll hear skeptics proclaiming it's no longer worth pursuing. This sentiment has been observed in stocks, cryptocurrencies, and real estate.
Often, those who caution against investing at high points miss out on the chance to buy at lower prices due to perceived risks. The reality is, if you're in it for the long haul, the timing of your investment doesn't matter as much as your strategy and preparedness.
I began exploring cryptocurrencies when Bitcoin was priced at $40,000, feeling it was out of reach. Two years later, I purchased it for $19,000. Had I chosen to invest for the long term back then, buying at $40,000 would not have hindered my profit potential.
Similarly, I acquired my first home in 2019 when the market was already inflated. Initially skeptical, I now find that my investment has doubled, proving that what appears overpriced can still yield significant returns over time.
The Role of Talent in Saturated Markets
Ultimately, success in any field isn't determined by the number of competitors. If you excel at what you do, you can thrive regardless of market saturation. Many who insist that you're "too late" often do so out of fear—fear of competition from newcomers who might outshine them.
Today, while many industries seem saturated, new talents continue to emerge, showcasing their unique skills and perspectives. What sets them apart? They disregard naysayers and pursue their passion.
While I have my reservations about certain ventures like Airbnb or course selling, that doesn't mean they won't be profitable for you. There are individuals still succeeding in these areas, and my views represent only my personal perspective.
Your interpretation of the market can either motivate you to innovate and adapt or discourage you from taking action.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the opinions of influencers and experts should not dictate your decisions. You have the power to determine the value of an opportunity based on your goals and circumstances.
Many people assert that platforms like YouTube or Instagram have lost their appeal because of their decreasing earnings, but for you, the potential rewards might still be life-changing. Perspective is key in evaluating these situations.
For instance, many declared it too late to invest in Bitcoin when it peaked at $69,000, only to see it drop to $18,000 later. While I have my reservations about Airbnb due to personal challenges and new regulations, there are still individuals generating substantial income from it.
In conclusion, starting a business, investment, or platform might be more challenging now than it was in the past, but that does not negate the potential for success. Your unique ideas and efforts can still carve a path for you in any venture.
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