I encourage founders to validate their ideas by talking to potential customers before writing any code or raising money.

To validate a product idea, consider building a minimal version or a related feature rather than a full product, allowing for quicker feedback. Sales is a powerful way to validate interest in a product; getting someone to commit to paying upfront is one of the most validating actions you can take.

We learned that many great ideas often sound ridiculous at first, and that solving a personal problem can lead to a successful business.

Before leaving your job, ensure you've validated your idea. Market demand is crucial; do people actually want what you're offering? This validation can help you take the leap with confidence, knowing it's based on solid evidence rather than just a shot in the dark.

It's crucial for Founders to validate their ideas quickly to avoid wasting time on concepts that don't resonate with users.

Founders often mistakenly believe they have customers based on interest, but without revenue, they can't confirm the viability of their ideas.

The key lesson I learned is to follow your customers rather than investors, as they are the true indicators of what will be successful.

Founders often make the mistake of being afraid to charge for their product, fearing customer rejection. However, charging customers is one of the most effective ways to learn about your business, including whether users are willing to pay and which customer segments are most excited to pay.

If customers express a willingness to pay for your solution, consider asking them for a commitment, like writing a check in advance, to validate your idea.