Just do it

When I decide I want to do something, I do it, if at all possible. For example, once my wild imagination came up with the idea that I should cycle over the Alps.

At first, it sounded impossible, but I decided to test the idea in small steps.

1. The Minimum Viable Test: First, I cycled from Helsinki to Tammisaari and back (a short trip). I quickly realized one thing: I needed proper cycling shoes. (Lesson: Identify the essential tools first.)

2. The First Scaling Challenge: The next test was cycling from Helsinki to the Arctic Circle. This required some practice, so I started cycling to work and doing longer rides on the weekends. For the Arctic Circle crossing, I wore a T-shirt that read: Just Do It. (Lesson: Consistent daily effort builds endurance for the big milestones. Put your head down and execute.)

3. The Pre-Launch Beta: My next stage was a week-long trip in Norway. Trollstigen and Jotunheimen were the first mountain climbs I tackled. I practised the climbs by repeatedly grinding up and down a local hill. (Lesson: Simulation and deliberate practice are key before confronting real-world complexity.)

The Final Summit: Munich to Venice

For the actual Alps crossing, Munich to Venice, I searched for the highest point and the most beautiful ascents. I even took a detour in Italy to cycle the stunning Sella Ring, a favorite among cyclists, before finally arriving in Venice.

Many years later, if I had to do something differently, I might leave the iron at home and accept that my clothes might be wrinkled at the hotel dinner. Maybe.

I think I might be good at inspiring others, because I've successfully lured six people from my close circle to cycle mountains with me.

The Startup Parallel

As I wrote this, I couldn't help but think of my own startup journey.
Building an indie project or a high-tech company is exactly like cycling the Alps:
• The Idea is the Summit: It looks huge and intimidating from the ground.
• The MVP is Your "Tammisaari Trip": Start small. Build the absolute minimum and validate your core technical need (e.g., proper shoes/tech stack).
• Daily Dev Work is Cycling to Work: It's the consistent, unglamorous effort that makes the big pushes possible.
• Scaling is the Arctic Circle: It requires dedication, a clear vision, and the simple commitment to Just Do It.
• Don't Over-Optimize the Details: Leave the metaphorical "iron" at home. You can worry about perfect polish and fancy dinners later. Focus on the climb.

The picture from a later trip to Venice.