Unconventional Startup Lessons for Badass Founders
As a queer, fully tattooed woman, I've always stood out like a sore thumb in the entrepreneur and VC world. At first, this made me uneasy, and I attempted to conceal my true self. But soon, I realized that by hiding my authenticity, I wasn't just betraying myself—I was undermining my mission. It dawned on me that embracing my uniqueness was the key to my success. Sure, I might turn heads in a crowd, but more often than not, it piqued people's curiosity and drew them in to learn more about who I am and what I'm up to. Now, after 15 years as a VC-backed, exited founder turned investor, I'm here to share some of the invaluable lessons I've gathered along the way.
LESSON 1: OWN YOUR FLAWSOMENESS
Listen up, folks: nobody's perfect, and that's what makes us all freaking awesome. I can tell you firsthand that embracing your flawsomeness is the key to unlocking your full potential. So whether you've got a killer tattoo sleeve, a head of colorful hair, or a boisterous personality that can't be contained, own it like a boss. Your uniqueness is your superpower, so don't let anyone dull your sparkle.
LESSON 2: F*CK CONFORMITY
In an ecosystem full of bros and Zuckerberg types, it's easy to feel the pressure to blend in and conform to the status quo. But here's the thing: conformity is about as exciting as watching paint dry. As a founder, your job is to shake things up, challenge norms, and disrupt the hell out of the system. So don't be afraid to stand out, speak up, and do things your own damn way. Embrace your uniqueness and let it be your secret sauce.
LESSON 3: SURROUND YOURSELF WITH YOUR RIDE-OR-DIE CREW
Navigating the turbulent waters of startup entrepreneurship is similar to riding a rollercoaster blindfolded—thrilling, terrifying, and occasionally inducing the urge to hurl. That's where your ride-or-die crew comes in handy, serving as your anchors in the chaos, ensuring you don't lose your lunch, or your sanity, along the way. So surround yourself with people who believe in you, support you, and won't judge you for wearing pajamas to a board meeting (hey, we've all been there, right??). Whether it's your team, your mentors, or your ride-or-die BFFs, find your people and hold onto them tight. They'll be the ones cheering you on when you're crushing it and holding your hair back when you're sick from the stress.
LESSON 4: STAY TRUE TO YOUR VISION (EVEN WHEN SH*T HITS THE FAN)
Let's face it: building a startup is like trying to ride a unicycle on a tightrope while juggling chainsaws. In other words, it's f*cking hard. But when the going gets tough and the universe throws every obstacle imaginable in your path, remember why you started this crazy journey in the first place. Whether you're bootstrapping your way to profitability or chasing after that exit, stay true to your vision and keep pushing forward. Your authenticity, your resilience, and your commitment to your dreams will be the fuel that propels you to greatness.
LESSON 5: EMBRACE THE CHAOS (AND HAVE FUN WHILE YOU’RE AT IT)
I wish someone had told me this earlier on - remember to embrace the chaos and have a little fun along the way. Building a startup is undeniably hard but it's also going be the ride of your f*cking life. So don't take yourself too seriously, laugh in the face of adversity, and remember to enjoy the journey. After all, life's too short to play it safe and blend in with the crowd. So go ahead, embrace your inner unicorn, and let your freak flag fly. The world needs more badass misfits like you.
One thing remains clear: being a founder is not a journey for the faint-hearted. It's a ride of triumphs and setbacks, highs and lows, that demands grit, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to your vision. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it's crucial to know that your most valuable asset isn't your startup—it's you. Stay true to who you are and the mission you’re on. And remember, without your physical and mental well-being, you're just spinning your wheels. So, take care of yourself, prioritize your health, and keep in mind: you can't conquer the world if you're too sick to enjoy the victory.
