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BS

Ben Silbermann

11/09/16

@ Y Combinator

The biggest risk for a startup is the founders becoming discouraged and burning out, which can be exacerbated by tying personal worth to the company's success.

Video

YC

Ben Silbermann at Startup School SV 2016

@ Y Combinator

Ben Silbermann at Startup School SV 2016

11/09/16

Related Takeaways

GT

Garry Tan

06/13/25

@ Garry Tan

The biggest threat to your startup might not be competition or the market; it might be you. Founders often overlook their own psychology, which can either sabotage or supercharge their startup.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

03/21/25

@ Y Combinator

The journey of building a startup often involves personal growth, and founders need to ensure they create a work culture that aligns with their values to avoid burnout.

PH

Peter H. Diamandis

05/31/25

@ Peter H. Diamandis

Many startups fail because founders pursue them for money rather than passion, leading to burnout before success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

03/21/25

@ Y Combinator

Self-abandonment in co-founder relationships can lead to burnout and unresolved issues, which ultimately harm the startup.

SA

Sam Altman

05/02/17

@ Y Combinator

The primary reason startups fail is that founders give up. It's crucial to manage your psychology to avoid quitting prematurely, even when faced with challenges.

JL

Jessica Livingston

10/25/13

@ Y Combinator

The biggest cause of startup failure is not creating something that people want, which often leads to founders losing momentum and focus on their original vision.

GR

Geoff Ralston

07/19/19

@ Y Combinator

Startups are incredibly difficult, and without a strong narrative to motivate you during tough times, you risk quitting and ultimately failing.

MS

Michael Seibel

03/03/22

@ Y Combinator

Overthinking can be a founder's biggest mistake, leading to stress and indecision due to the lack of constraints and guidance in a startup environment.

JL

Jessica Livingston

10/25/13

@ Y Combinator

Startups often experience dramatic ups and downs, akin to a roller coaster, and founders should be prepared for the emotional challenges that come with it.