First-Time Startup Leader — What Could Go Wrong?
Luke Preston
Posted on May 17, 2024
Things can go so south, lol.
This thought often crosses my mind.
It’s me and 15 other builders — passionate, driven, and incredibly talented.
But… I’ve never met a single one of them in person.
Starting a company has always been a dream of mine.
The idea of creating something from nothing, solving real problems, and making a difference is my purpose.
But the reality of leading a startup is far more complicated than I ever imagined.
It’s a rollercoaster of highs and lows, wins and setbacks.
I often feel pretty clueless.
There are days when I question every decision, doubting my abilities and wondering if I’m cut out for this.
Impostor syndrome is a constant companion, whispering in my ear that I’m not good enough, not smart enough, not experienced enough.
To add to the mix, I have no traditional job.
My entire focus is on this startup, which means no steady paycheck, no job security, and no fallback plan.
It’s a risk, and it feels like walking a tightrope without a safety net.
But it’s also incredibly liberating.
It forces me to give my all, to commit fully, and to push through the fear and uncertainty.
The truth is, I’m learning as I go.
Every day brings new challenges and new lessons.
I’m learning to lead a team, to make tough decisions, to pivot when things don’t go as planned.
I’m learning about resilience, about the importance of communication and collaboration, and about the sheer grit it takes to keep moving forward.
This feeling of cluelessness, of being out of my depth, isn’t unique.
It’s a common experience for many entrepreneurs.
It’s part of the journey, a rite of passage that almost everyone goes through.
It’s a sign that we’re pushing our boundaries, stepping out of our comfort zones, and striving for something greater.
Being out of your comfort zone is where growth happens.
It’s where you learn the most about yourself, about your strengths and weaknesses, and about what you’re truly capable of.
It’s uncomfortable, sometimes even painful, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
But here’s the thing: every challenge is an opportunity for growth.
Every setback teaches a valuable lesson.
This journey is about more than just building a startup — it’s about building resilience, learning continuously, and growing both personally and professionally.
I’m grateful for the incredible team I get to work with, even if it’s all virtual.
We’re all in this together, pushing forward with passion and determination.
Remember, it’s okay to feel uncertain.
It’s okay to not have all the answers.
What’s important is to keep moving, keep learning, and keep believing in the vision.
So embrace the unknown, and make something amazing out of it.
If you’re feeling lost, remember you’re not alone.
Let’s keep pushing forward together.
Side Note: Reach out and share your journey with me. I’d love to hear your stories and support each other on this wild ride.
Posted on May 17, 2024
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