The Realm of Low Expectations

As a startup investor, I've seen many careers develop over the last 20 years and one of the worst patterns I see is: low expectations. Unfortunately, it's very common.

A talented founder with big dreams, meets reality with a bump when their startup doesn't have the outcome they hoped. Next, they ask themselves, "Why would anyone great want to work with me now?" And then the spiral starts...

They accept working with weaker companies, worse people and on problems they don't care about. These 'bad' environments make them comfortable versus pushing them to learn and grow. Suddenly, starting a company that might IPO seems very, very far away.

My advice: "Do not go quietly". Give yourself time to heal both emotionally and, if needed, financially. When you're feeling better, start dreaming again. It doesn't have to be founding a company but whatever you pursue make sure it's what you really want to do, with the very best people possible, pushing you outside your comfort zone. Even if that means getting a lot of rejections along the way.

Remember, many of the most revered people in Silicon Valley gained that reputation through their second or third act. Yours is waiting.