BuildBrief: Stop building random apps. Build an app and exit for $1M

Most solo builders spend months perfecting an app nobody wants.

They nail the code and ship a beautiful UI, but get zero downloads, zero retention, and zero revenue.

The problem isn't their coding skills. It's that they built the wrong app.

To not waste your time, find one app idea you can start building today, and ship it in the next 7 days using this 3-step system:

Step 1: Hunt your own problems

Think about something that frustrated you this week.

Then, do this:

Ask ChatGPT: "What's a simple mobile app that could solve this specific problem?"

Search TikTok, Instagram, or Reddit for people complaining about the same thing - and try to see if there's a viral potential you can use for the marketing (very important).

Users needs to get the "AHA moment" fast and clearly from the app.

Real example:

My morning routine was inefficient because I spent most of my time trying to remember what to do next.

So I built a simple Daily Routine app for myself.

Each morning, I open it and click through a list of tasks: tidy bed, cold shower, put on my lenses, etc.

Nothing fancy, but it solved my problem.

The lesson: If you build an app you'd personally pay for, chances are a million others would too.

Step 2: Start building immediately

Once you've found the problem, build it fast.

Set up your codebase: "npx create-expo-app"

Define ONE core feature that delivers the main value for the app.

Set a 5-day limit. If it takes longer, you're overbuilding.

The goal isn't perfection here, it's momentum. Get the app shipped as fast as possible!

Step 3: Launch and get users

When your app works and is live in the App Store, share it to your friends and family.

Watch them when they download, sign up and use the app.

Don't ask them too many questions. Just watch how they use the app and note down what it seems like they're thinking.

Then you can ask them for feedback, like "What would make it worth $5/month to you?"

Use that input to improve the app.

Every iteration moves you closer to a real, monetizable product.

And the faster you cycle through ideas → validation → shipping… the closer you get to that $1M exit.

Action steps:

1. Find one problem you face daily
2. Start building (and finish your first version in 5 days)
3. Share the app with all your friends and family
4. Then reply to this email with your app, and I'll personally test it as well and give feedback.

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Happy building!
– Kristoffer, BuildWithAI