Currently building something new. Serial entrepreneur (2x cofounder, 2x exit - last one at $510M). Angel investor in 55+ companies and funds.
I've had the great fortune to know successful founders, some of whom I'm now good friends with. Now, among these people, I cannot think of one person -- ONE person -- who hasn't experienced some sort of absolute rock bottom. Company running out of money. Personal finance at huge risk, as they took personal loans to plug their company's financial holes. Insomnia, panic attacks, and many other health problems. Strained family relationships. One of my founder friends once reminisced about his hard times and joked, "I was totally lying on the ground. I thought that was the absolute bottom. Well, it turned out, there was a basement." But they took a deep breath and gave it one more push every time they were down. Somehow, they turned things around and achieved success -- in some cases, even greater success than they had imagined. More importantly, throughout the process, their maturity level increased, and they became more compassionate. Honestly, founders who hit rock bottom and came back are some of the best people I know. Every single one of them wants to help other people. So, to the founders who are chewing glass right now, I hope you'll hang in there. Turns out, it really is darkest before the dawn. One day you'll joke about the f*ing basement.
Hi Chang! Even though I am not a founder, I have been working in the fintech startup space for quite some time now. I don’t know how I got here. But I came across your account, and I love reading your posts - they’re very personal and genuine. Thank you for this encouraging message. I also got the chance to watch your interview with Anastasia (Exit Paradox). It inspired me to continue to dance in the rain at this young age but also know when to rest. The example of Isaac Newton sitting under a tree, resting, only to discover the theory of gravity. Thanks again for sharing your experience / knowledge once again 💫
So true! Most don't see the depths that most founders go to in order to succeed. We typically celebrate the end-state wins and ignore the near-fail experiences that dot the landscape of a startup's journey. This is why founders need a good support network of other founders who truly understand that the road is never easy.
Very inspiring post for all the founders Chang (CK) Kim It`s important to just keep going in the darkest time
This is powerful and inspiring. Thanks for sharing great post!
Couldn’t agree more. As always, thank you for sharing your insights!
So well written!
i admire people like these. like really.
Thanks CK. So inspiring!
Giving up is not an option but it's cool to be inspired especially when you're struggling with certain challenges, in times like this it's important to have a support system. Personally I'm very grateful for my friends & family in hard times as they help me get back on my feet !
Chief Memory Officer professional jekass
1moSo i guess we are all Bane? HAHAHA