Introduction

Some companies are growing fast but still believe their product isn’t good enough. This thinking can hurt more than help.

What's the Problem It Solves?

Many teams focus too much on what their product lacks and ignore what makes them stand out. This mindset leads to weak sales, unclear marketing, and missed opportunities.

Quick Summary

April Dunford explains how some companies fall into a trap called “product pessimism.” These companies are winning in the market but believe their product is behind. They dismiss their own wins as luck and build roadmaps full of catch-up features. As a result, they miss what actually makes them strong.

This mindset spreads quickly through teams. Sales stops trusting the product, marketing can’t explain the value, and everyone starts to doubt why customers choose them. April’s answer: focus on what makes you different, narrow down who you’re best for, and build a shared story about why you win today-not just what you’re missing.

Key Takeaways from the Article

• Teams can be too hard on their own product, even when it's performing well
• Wins get ignored or dismissed as luck, instead of being studied and repeated
• Product pessimism spreads and weakens sales, marketing, and morale
• Clear positioning helps teams understand and communicate their real strengths
• Working closely across sales, product, and marketing rebuilds confidence
• Knowing your best-fit customer means knowing who to say “no” to
• Focus on delivering unique value, not just catching up on features
• Teams need a clear answer to: “Why do people choose us right now?”

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