Many founders mistakenly think that after a successful launch, their journey will be smooth sailing, but the reality is that setbacks are a constant in the startup world.

The idea of a 'magical deal' can mislead founders into thinking that one significant event will solve all their problems, but often, it leads to more challenges.

Founders must prepare for a challenging journey, aligning their investors and team on the understanding that the path to success will be bumpy and filled with tough decisions.

Execution is often the most critical part of starting a company, and founders must be prepared for a long grind focused on execution.

Establishing personal connections is vital when negotiating deals; many founders fail to do this, which can hinder their success.

A common misconception among founders is that raising money will magically solve all their problems. They may believe that their investors will save them from failure, which leads to a lack of critical thinking and preparation for ongoing challenges.

Great founders are often unbalanced in their commitment, pouring everything into their venture, especially during the early years when the stakes are high.

Building relationships with partners and founders is essential, especially in the early stages of a startup, as it can lead to valuable opportunities.

Successful founders often have a deep internal belief that they will make their company work, even when faced with challenges.