As a creator, your first product may not have sold as much as you had hoped. At first, it can be tough to accept because you poured your heart and energy into it.

But years later, you’ll realize how much that first product opened new doors for you. You’ll look back on it and feel proud because it took tremendous courage to share your skills, abilities, and passion with the world. With the perspective time brings, you’ll also see that your first project was a catalyst for many others and helped shape who you are today.

If you’re about to hit "publish" for the first time, see it as an important step on your journey. It might not be as game-changing as you hope, but it will undoubtedly bring you closer to your dream destination. Every small step forward matters.