-- As the calendar flips to 2025, the allure of a "New Year, New Me" mindset inspires countless Americans to dream big. However, while interest in starting side hustles has reached unprecedented levels, a new study by Hostinger reveals the hidden psychological barriers holding many back from taking the plunge into entrepreneurship.
Based on insights from 2,000 respondents across the United States, Hostinger’s report uncovers the fears, doubts, and challenges that aspiring entrepreneurs face. Despite the increasing accessibility of online tools and resources, fear of failure remains a dominant hurdle, with over 70% of respondents citing it as their primary concern.
“It’s not just about practical challenges,” explains Catarina Mendes, Data Studies and Surveys Specialist at Hostinger. “Many people grapple with internal doubts, like whether they’re skilled enough or if they’ll be judged by their peers."
Among the key findings:
- Over 70% of respondents cited fear of failure as the main reason they hesitate to start a side hustle.
- Around 20% of the respondents experience self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Also, 13.42% of the respondents that stopped their business attributed their decision to a lack of confidence.
- 30.89% of the respondents cite lack of skills and knowledge as obstacles to launch a successful side hustle. Moreover, 10.24% stopped due to a lack of skills or knowledge.
- 32.73% of the respondents say they lack the necessary funds to start a business.
Uncertainty about initial costs and profitability remains a major deterrent.
- 19.25% of small businesses owners feel burnout frequently.
Despite these challenges, the report also highlights a silver lining. The start of a new year is a powerful motivator for many. Over 60% of respondents shared that January is the ideal time to face their fears and dive into new ventures.
“The fresh start that comes with a new year provides the perfect opportunity to reset and refocus,” says Catarina Mendes. “With the right resources, anyone can overcome these barriers and create something impactful.”
As the gig economy grows, starting a side hustle has never been more accessible. These insights shed light on the psychological, technical, and financial challenges that aspiring and current entrepreneurs face as they consider starting or maintaining a business in 2025. Hostinger’s mission is to empower individuals to seize these opportunities, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
All reported statistics reflect responses to a Hostinger survey from December 2024, designed by Hostinger. The audience comprises 2000 respondents from the US.
Full study here: https://www.hostinger.com/blog/start-a-business-in-2025.
For more information about this study, please contact Catarina Mendes at [email protected].
About Hostinger
Hostinger is one of the top 3 web hosting brands worldwide. With world-class products and a team of around 900 curious and high-spirited professionals, they help over three million clients in more than 150 countries achieve their online goals.
Hostinger has been ranked among the fastest-growing companies in Europe for four consecutive years in the Financial Times' annual FT 1000 list.
Contact Info:
Name: Catarina Mendes
Email: Send Email
Organization: Hostinger
Website: https://www.hostinger.com/
Release ID: 89150398
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