After seeing the enormous success of the DoorDash and Airbnb IPO, I straight away went to my LinkedIn and started typing about the highlights. Especially on who made what returns, and how their combined market cap was way above their previous valuations.
Then I paused.
I recalled all the other stories about their early days. How the founders of DoorDash were delivering food after attending class, and were also customer support taking calls during lectures. Another article, or should I say post that really resonated with me was Brian Chesky’s one on his “7 rejections”. He took screenshots of the rejection letters he received basically telling us that it’s ok to get rejected. After reading these I thought to myself — this is me. This is exactly what WE went through, and for a brief moment in all the uncertainties of running a startup, I felt relieved.
A sudden feeling of change made me want to write my last post of the year to be personal hoping it can also encourage those who are feeling lost.
I decided I wanted this to BE ABOUT the founders. I don’t know how to express this clearly but seeing guys like Tony Xu, Brian Chesky go from scrappy startup doing things that are unscalable early on all the way to public tech juggernauts made me feel that they achieved this on behalf of us all founders. There’s a part of me believing that they were representing founders across the globe. Founders who are beat down repetitively and gets back up with grit to push on. Founders who went through extreme challenges and eventually finding light at the end of the tunnel. More importantly, founders who believes in their purpose and mission.
We as founders often find ourselves in very challenging situations. Hearing stories like this, listening to them share their experiences allows us to put ourselves in every founders’ shoes. It’s obvious that it’s not all rosy. The roller coaster ride of ups and downs of a startup is something only a founder can truly empathise.
On my closing note I want to mention again that this is dedicated to all founders. 2020 was definitely one of those dark times. And in going through similar experiences I believe that we all can share a feeling of belonging. United by challenges, celebrated in achievements, I’m here today because of all of you.
There’s a few days left til the end of the year. For those who are still going at it 120% to hit those numbers, please take a break. Even for one day. Spend time with your loved ones, and reflect on how grateful you are to those who supported you.
I have nothing but best wishes to us all. Happy holidays, and Happy New Years. Onwards and upwards for 2021
Oh, and whenever you’re feeling like you’re not going t make it, just remember that Brian Chesky sold cereal to survive.
