Building a startup is an education unlike any other. Theory becomes irrelevant when you're in the trenches making decisions with incomplete information.
Lesson 1: Talk to Customers
Lesson one: Talk to customers obsessively. Everything else is assumption. Build the smallest thing possible and get it in front of real users. Their feedback is worth more than any business plan.
Lesson 2: Hire Slow, Fire Fast
Lesson two: Hire slow, fire fast. A wrong hire costs more than an unfilled position. Cultural fit matters as much as skills. When someone isn't working out, acting quickly is kindest for everyone.
Lesson 3: Cash Is Oxygen
Lesson three: Cash is oxygen. Runway determines your freedom to make decisions. Raise more than you think you need when times are good.
Lesson 4: Focus Ruthlessly
Lesson four: Focus ruthlessly. Startups don't die from starvation—they die from indigestion. Say no to almost everything so you can say yes to what matters.
Startups don't die from starvation — they die from indigestion.
