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Founders, what do you do when you're feeling demotivated?
Starting a company can be an intense experience, filled with highs and lows. There will be moments when it feels like progress has come to a standstill and doubts start to creep in, making you question your ability to succeed.
So, how do you deal with these challenges?
I still remember something Brian Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase, once said: "Just keep building, show up every day, and take small steps forward consistently. Eventually, positive things will happen." This advice has stuck with me ever since.
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@samuel_tf_lam Listening to Artificial Algorithm by Slow Meadow right now (spotify recommendation)
Should do the trick!
@gael_de_mondragon yeah definitely need some nice music and remember all the small steps you already took, now do just one more at a time.
Lows only last so long. Know that what you're doing takes time, be patient with yourself and with others. Appreciate every success, even the smallest ones. Learn the skill of managing doubt, learn if it's real or if it's just impatience.
I don’t know who said it, but I heard somebody online with the quote ‘this too shall pass’. Sometimes I say it under my breath, and it can help me refocus
One of my investors, who built a unicorn and took the company public (and continues to be CEO!) shared these words with me the other day:
“when you are feeling like you suck, that you’re no longer good for the role, that someone would do a better job - just find a way to make progress toward the more ideal state - identify where you need to go, and the steps required, then just start making progress.
the faster you’re feeling progress the faster you’re getting out of where you were. Without you can just eat yourself alive.”
These words have stayed with me since.
Hey Sam, fair question! Consistency is important but when you’re low it’s ok - and often needed - to take a step back and recharge to get back with energy.
Going outside and moving, making sure you get enough sleep, surrounding yourself with similar-stage founders, and venting together with them - they usually have similar issues, and ranting together can be so energizing ;).
This has helped me get the vibes back up. Staring at the laptop and being unable to do anything has never helped anyone...
Oh and the right music of course! Music is SO powerful!
All the best to you and your journey!
Thats a great comment. I want to believe it, its just tough to not get burnt out when you're not seeing constant results. We just need to remember that we signed up for this. We chose this life.
If brain needs a rest:
Run, read fiction (or audio book), listen to music. Netflix.
If I need inspiration:
Think about the vision, research competition, read non-fiction (or audio book), get into communities and engage.
when you are feeling low, It's a phase that you need to manage effectively by taking a break. Yeah, it's OK to take a break then get back to building when you feel much better. Remember you chose this path for a reason, so get back to building to achieve the ultimate goal when you are feeling much better.
That quote is so powerful and accurate. Thanks for sharing it, Sam. I think it answers your question beautifully. I have far more lows than I have highs at times, and on those days I try to remember that every tiny step matters. Do your best and show up for yourself however you can.
Anyone figured out how not to be emotionally synchronized with user signups, conversion, revenue, other metrics going up or down? I hit a new milestone feel great about it, then VCs turns it down and wants more performance and everything deflates. Raising $10 seems harder than quitting.
I watch youtube videos of other entrepreneurs like that channel of Nathan Latka.
I get motivated when I see people succeed and grow
It’s realy useful to remember that all founders have ups and downs and the period of dis motivation will pass away soon you just need a little rest. Also look back on how much problems you and your team have already overcome! So there is nothing that can stop you! 🚀
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