Don't over-optimize for valuation caps when raising money on SAFEs, as the difference in ownership percentages may not be significant, and the focus should be on making the company successful instead.

Most startups fail, and only a small percentage achieve significant financial success, so view equity as a tool to enhance your chances of success rather than a fixed resource to be divided.

Experience alone does not justify a larger equity share; a co-founder must be a key contributor to the team.

Just because a smart investor has invested in your company doesn't mean it's doing well; fundraising rounds can happen even for struggling companies.

Founders should be cautious about how much they raise on SAFEs, as it dilutes their ownership in the company.

Don't sweat the small stuff when angel investing; focus on the potential for big wins instead.

Most startups are not generous enough with employee equity, and you should demand fair treatment in terms of compensation.

It's important to understand the implications of raising a large round, such as giving up control and how it affects future fundraising and equity distribution.

Good numbers alone can be misleading; always assess whether a company is genuinely creating value rather than exploiting temporary inefficiencies.