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Building a startup and in need of inspiration? I hope this lifts your spirits.

Hello everyone,

I'm a first time entrepreneur and living the journey. Building a startup is by far the most daring task I ever took on in my life, yet I never doubt the decision of leaving the toxic 10 years of corporate bureaucracy.

I would like to share part of my journey with you and hope that whenever you feel struck down by anxiety, or doubt yourself, or get questioned by those who care and love you the most, then I hope that this comes in handy.

First and foremost, ask yourself this: Can I visualize it, can I see it happening? If the answer is Yes, then there is no good reason for you to stop chasing your goals - regardless of what the people around you have to say.

I was told endlessly, it's not for you, maybe you should give up or reconsider... All this "noise" just fueled my motivation to make it happen. I started getting into stoicism and it changed my life. Highly suggest reading Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/1503280462
Just a quote that I'd like to share here: "Choose not be harmed - and you won't feel harmed. Don't feel harmed - and you haven't been." Marcus Aurelius -Meditations, Book 4.
Granted, easier said than done, but once you embrace this and apply it, your perspective about things will change and you shall inevitably become stronger and more resilient.

Throughout the journey, I've experienced ups and downs like a never-ending rollercoaster ride. I'm fundraising a Seed round for over $1M USD.
My co-founders and I met with over 100 investors by now and the validation is there, but the pandemic is really blocking many investors from putting money on the table.
At some point, doubt really crept in to the extent that I felt (for the first time ever) that this may not work out... But I keep holding the belief that the business will persevere, because I can still visualize it. So I pushed through.
Somehow, 3 weeks later we get contacted by two accelerators who both end up accepting us - possibly raising our chances of getting investment.

I am certainly not saying that we made it. I understand that there is plenty more to do and the road ahead is very long. The message that I'm trying to convey here is, no matter where you find yourself in the journey, DO NOT DOUBT YOURSELVES. Even if those who love you question you, or progress is suddenly shaky, just take a step back - realize that everyone cares about you and your success. That's it.

You're a solid entrepreneur and you know the industry better than anyone. Stay confident, and most importantly act. Assess, iterate where needed, and hold firmly. It will work out.

There is so much more that I can share, so if you ever want to talk, please message me or ask me anything.

  1. 1

    Thanks for sharing, if you’ve spent enough time in the community you know that building your own thing will be a roller coaster but that still doesn’t stop the doubts creeping in when you’re in one of the dips.

    Timely reminder that everyone experiences doubt and that success comes from perseverance. Keep projecting the positive vibes 💪

    1. 1

      Absolutely hamishirving, the doubts will creep in from time to time. What matters is that doubt doesn't turn out into anxiety. Totally agree, with enough discipline & perseverance you will overcome. 💪💪

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