Building what’s missing, even when the world doesn’t see it yet

I recently asked someone if they’d be interested in beta testing my app. It’s free, I told them—just download it, click around, and give me honest feedback on what works, what doesn’t, and what could be better. Their response hit me harder than I expected: “There are already so many social media apps. I’m tired of them. I don’t think it’s going to be successful.” For a moment, they planted doubt in my mind. Social media is oversaturated, and people are burnt out. But here’s the difference—this app isn’t like the others. I’m not building something to trap people into endless doom scrolling. I’m not trying to keep people glued to their phones for hours. This app is about real connection. It’s about finding ways to be social again, to discover things to do, to get out of the house and engage with the world. It’s social media, but with a purpose: to make people more social in real life, not less. I know it’s a risk. I know I’m jumping into a crowded space. But I didn’t secure an LLC, patent the intellectual property, or pour my savings into this just to quit before it’s had a chance to thrive. I believe in this project. I believe it’s what’s missing. Will it be the next Instagram or TikTok? Probably not. But that’s not the point. If even a small community uses it, sees its value, and thinks, “This is what I’ve been waiting for—I didn’t even realize I needed it,” then it’s worth it. Sometimes, you have to build what’s missing in the world, even if others don’t see the gap yet. I’m building it because I want to use it, and I haven’t seen anything like it on the market. I’m okay starting small, growing steadily, and keeping the integrity of what this app is supposed to be. To other builders, dreamers, and creators out there: How do you handle doubt, especially when you’re creating something you believe in, but others can’t see yet? How do you stay committed to the vision?