Behind the announcement of every glossy fund that we publish here in EU-Startups, there is a sleepless story of sleepless nights, stressful relationships and relentless stress. A new Europe-wire study of the VC firm Antler On this side of the Atlantic, a technology company reveals the intriguing reality of what it takes to create.
Based on the insights of more than 120 founders, the survey revealed that 72% said that being founder is the most difficult job for them and 75% report works more than 605 hours a week. One out of about five regularly crosses the mark of 5 hours.
This reality is against the intensely repeated description that the European founder does not rush as strictly as their American parts.
In Germany, for example, a wonderful 94% founders work for 60 hours a week and are more than 38% 80. Daria StepanovaMunich-based co-founder AirmoThis dedication clearly depicts: “You still give up the illusion of a balanced life to create something that does not exist – and perhaps it should not exist without such a national obsession.” However, his inspiration is crystal clear: “If we can truly make methane emissions visible and effective – we remove the needle in the climate in a real, measurable way.”
This ambition costs up. The founders have reported sacrifice with loved ones (%5%), accepted the salary (5%face) and endured long-lasting burnsout and self-sufficiency. Theo orthePotsdam-based co-founder Family. CardsReflect: “Time – and that comes with that emotional place. Establish an organization claims a promise of an irrational level. (…) Sleep Another accident – constant stress, anxiety and emotional burden keep you awake. “
Probably the most serious thing is that these sacrifices are rarely understood – recognized alone. The entire 62% of the founders said that their families had questioned the decision to move away from a stable career. George RobinsonLondon-based co-founder Gladice And before a barrister, this is the first hand felt: “My family, especially my parents, initially thought it was a horrible decision to leave a stable and reputed career. And yes, there are moments of doubt.”
Despite this, 98% of the founders say they like what they do. The huge majority is not positively chasing the rich – only 4% quoted the financial award as their main inspiration. Instead, they are driven by the opportunity to create something important. Leden-based co-founder RacistKeeps it simply: “I drive by this belief that a racic can make a clear difference in human life. (…) My kids are my biggest inspiration. They remind me that perseverance is why it is important. “
Wendy liOslo-based co-founder ImportSharing a similar feeling: “Every day I do what I do directly to the business is inspirational to know. The opportunity to create prices on my own terms and conditions that will solve a real problem that will solve a real problem.”
Li’s story echoes many others who have removed the countries, adjusted life, and have worked through countless disasters to promise to create something with effect.
As Alan PonszenPartner of Antler, mentioned, founder deserves more than praise – they deserve to understand: “In Europe you are more likely to be an Olympic medal than the founder of a Unicorn Organization. (…) Nevertheless, we hope that they will live a ‘normal’ life when they try to achieve something extraordinary. “
However, recognition is rare. A transparent 735% founders think their promise is not recognized. Danial EzdzenilerLondon-based co-founder You have capsaIt best describes: “People often look at the titles but are not sleepless nights or personal risks behind them. The founders do so much pour in a concept – financially, emotionally, mentally – and the elasticity that it takes is pretty awesome.”
Yet, perhaps the most inspiring that founders are learning how to adapt. They are looking for ways to protect their mental health, improve performance and maintain their speed.
For something, like StepanovaThis means learning to operate energy over time: “You can’t sprint forever – about performance sustainability. (…) You start operating more power than your time, never say and make people more smarter than you. “
Others indicate the importance of self-awareness and vision.
Robinson Found it “As a leader, when I have the power to push and when it is time to go back, it is vital to recognize. WorkThe “ OratagaAlso, highlighting the required mental shift: “Learning to conduct pressure in such a way that the fuel of progress does not lead to burnout or paralysis”
What is derived from these voices is a fate of fate iction – it is less about ego or optics to be a founder, but diligence. This is a job with high personal expenses, but it can find the backing as purpose.
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