Founders: Have you ever researched a startup idea only to find competitors already working on something similar? Don’t despair—this could actually be good news.

Most successful startups weren’t the first to market, and many great ideas aren’t unique. The fact that other smart entrepreneurs are building in your space validates the relevance and importance of your idea.

Most markets aren’t winner-take-all. There’s often room for multiple successful players. And most startups don’t fail because of competition.

Competition can actually reduce adoption risks for potential customers. When customers see options, they gain confidence in the market, which can help legitimize your product category.

Remember: building a startup is a marathon, not a sprint. Having competitors is like running alongside pacers—they help you keep your pace, push you to perform better, and prove the market’s worth your effort