Paul Graham: The highest compliment of a founder is that they're "earnest"

I read that I now I feel like an impostor... 😣

Am I passionate about the problem I'm solving, or am I passionate about being great at solving that problem and then the accouterments that may bring?

I wish Paul Graham runs their site over HTTPS :)

Not really. The highest compliment of an artist is that they are "earnest". Founders need a lot more than the qualities of an artist. The analytical aspect is just as important as the emotional and creative aspects.

It’s a nice exploration of earnestness.

I don’t use this word very much, my impression is that there is a negative association that many people have with this personal trait.

Even if there are sides to it that are good and appreciated, it’s often a criticism in disguise (or can be interpreted as such). So I just avoid it.

He must have read my comment when @Imshashank asked what's great about IH !

The people are earnest. They want to learn, they want to succeed, they want to share. They are happy to give & take constructive criticism.

This article by Graham not so great imo. Maybe inspired by having too many non-earnest founders in his pool.

This was a great read and certainly hit close to home 😅