Many successful applicants to Y Combinator were not first-time applicants; getting comfortable with taking risks and applying even when you think you might not succeed is crucial for growth. Persistence shows character and can lead to success, so don't be afraid to pursue opportunities even if the odds seem low.

If you're considering applying to Y Combinator, just do it; the experience could change your life, as it did for us.

Asking directly for what you want is crucial, especially in startup environments where time is limited.

You must clearly ask for what you want in negotiations; many founders hesitate to do this, but it's necessary to get what you need.

The mantra at Y Combinator is to 'make something people want,' which is essential for solving most startup problems.

When I applied to Y Combinator, I didn't have high hopes, but I believed in my idea and was invited for an interview, which was a turning point for me.

I think the most impactful lesson from Y Combinator is to focus on making something people want.

Applying to Y Combinator is worth it because it helps you organize and clarify your startup ideas through the application questions, which can lead to valuable insights.

I applied to Y Combinator without knowing that being a single non-technical founder might be a disadvantage, and I'm glad I did because it changed the trajectory of my life and business.