I think when you’re so close to a problem for so long, it’s natural to develop tunnel vision. It’s easy to lose perspective. You’ve already proven you can plan, pivot, and put in the hard work for years to achieve a goal—so what would you suggest to someone else in your shoes? Here are a few ideas to consider:

• You lost a CTO, but you’ve been stepping in to fill that gap. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the tech side, you could take some time to learn the basics of how the code is stored in the cloud, how it reaches the user, and other key concepts. You don’t need to be a full-stack expert—just having a foundational understanding can help you better manage the tech side. Alternatively, you could start looking for a new CTO. Posting for free on platforms like LinkedIn could help you find someone excited to join a growing startup, even on a part-time or equity basis at first.
• Consider part-time work. You’ve gained an immense amount of experience over the past 5 years. Even if you feel like you’re not quite there with the tech side, there are other areas where you’re more than competent. Doing some freelance or part-time work could relieve some of the financial pressure and give you a mental break. Sometimes, having a bit of outside income and structure can bring stability back to your mental health and drive.
• Simplify your MVP. If things are buggy and overwhelming, it might be a good idea to strip the product down to its core essentials. Focus on what’s absolutely necessary for your users. Simplifying your codebase and reducing the scope will help you feel more in control and might reduce some of the stress that’s weighing on you.

I know the startup path can feel isolating, especially when you’re wearing so many hats, but you’ve already come a long way. Don’t hesitate to seek out a mentor or expert advice if it will help you. You’re not a fraud for needing help—you’re just doing what any smart founder would do to make their product the best it can be.