Imagine standing at the edge of a vast canyon. Your goal is on the other side, seemingly unreachable. You lay down one brick, then another. Sometimes, despite your efforts, the other side doesn’t seem to get any closer. But you keep going, brick by brick. This requires immense mental stamina. It’s about recognizing how much you’ve done, seeing how much more there is to do, and not throwing up your hands in despair.
In my interviews with startup founders, a common trait emerges—resilience. These guys and gals just don’t give up. Day after day, they show up and do the work. They call investors, reach out to clients, and coach their teams. They confront the yawning chasm between their goals and their current position every day. And they choose to step into it every day, or, more accurately, build a bridge across.
Mental resilience surpasses entrepreneurial drive, motivation, and even passion. On tough days, when a client decides they don’t need your product or another investor turns you down, no pep talk or a positive attitude will push you forward. It’s your will, your grit that keeps you moving.
So, to all the startup founders out there: stay strong. Stay resilient. Put your helmet of mental resilience on, and stride forth!