What Startups Are Really Like

Paul Graham’s essay What Startups Are Really Like synthesizes feedback from Y Combinator founders about unexpected aspects of launching startups.

The Primary Insight

Most surprises stem from founders’ unconscious expectation that startups resemble traditional jobs—they don’t.

Key Findings

Cofounders Matter Most: Character and commitment outweigh raw ability. The founder relationship intensifies beyond typical coworker dynamics, becoming more like marriage than employment.

All-Consuming Nature: Startups never stop. “I didn’t realize I would spend almost every waking moment either working or thinking about our startup.”

Emotional Extremes: Victories and defeats swing dramatically within hours.

Paradoxical Fun: Despite difficulty, successful founders found deep fulfillment in creative autonomy and meaningful work.

Persistence Trumps Intelligence: “I’ve been surprised again and again by just how much more important persistence is than raw intelligence.”

Extended Timelines: Everything takes 2-3x longer than anticipated.

Iteration Necessity: “Fast iteration is the key to success.”

Community Value: Founders underestimated how generous the startup ecosystem actually is.

My Takeaway

A startup isn’t a job. It’s a way of life. Know what you’re signing up for.

What surprised you about startups? I’d love to hear at persdre@gmail.com.