5 Common Myths About Building in Public You Need to Stop Believing in 2026

Building in public has become a popular mantra among indie hackers and solo founders. However, with its rise, several myths have also emerged, leading to misconceptions that can hinder your journey. Let’s debunk these myths and share what’s actually true about building in public in 2026.

Myth 1: You Need a Large Audience to Start

Reality: You can absolutely begin building in public with a small audience. In fact, many successful builders started with just a handful of followers on Twitter or a small community on Discord. The key is consistency and genuine engagement.

Why It Matters: Starting small allows you to iterate on your messaging and product without the pressure of a large audience. You can refine your ideas and gather feedback in a manageable way.

Myth 2: Transparency Means Sharing Every Detail

Reality: While transparency is a cornerstone of building in public, it doesn’t mean you have to share every single detail of your project. Focus on sharing your journey, key learnings, and pivotal moments instead of every minor update.

Tradeoff: Over-sharing can lead to burnout and may confuse your audience. Be strategic about what you share, focusing on insights that add value to your followers.

Myth 3: Building in Public Only Works for Tech Startups

Reality: This myth couldn’t be more wrong. Building in public can benefit creators across various fields—be it a fitness coach sharing client progress, an artist revealing their creative process, or a chef developing a new recipe.

Broader Reach: The principles of engagement, feedback, and community apply universally. If you have a passion project, there’s an audience for it, no matter the niche.

Myth 4: You Must Be Perfect to Share Your Progress

Reality: Perfection is an illusion. Everyone makes mistakes, and sharing your failures can often resonate more with your audience than your successes. In fact, it humanizes your journey and fosters connection.

Our Experience: We’ve shared setbacks and rough drafts, which led to more meaningful conversations and support from our community. Real stories of struggle and resilience are what keep people engaged.

Myth 5: Building in Public Is Just a Marketing Tactic

Reality: While it can serve as a marketing tool, building in public is fundamentally about community and learning. It’s about sharing your journey authentically, not just selling a product.

Long-Term Value: The relationships and insights gained from building in public can be far more valuable than any immediate sales boost. It’s about cultivating a loyal audience that trusts you and your work.

Conclusion: Start Here

If you’re ready to embrace building in public, focus on authenticity over perfection, engage your community, and remember that you don’t need a large following to start. Share your journey, learn from feedback, and iterate as you go.

Building in public is not just a trendy phrase; it’s a powerful way to connect with others on a similar path.

For those looking to dive deeper into this approach, check out our podcast, Built This Week, where we discuss practical insights and tools that can help you on your journey.