Grind for a decade, no one cares for 7.5 yrs & hates you for remaining 2.5 yrs: Altman
When OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took to social media to share his thoughts on his decade-long journey in the AI startup, many were left nodding in recognition. In a candid post, Altman revealed the highs and lows of his experience, painting a picture of dedication, perseverance, and ultimately, a sense of disillusionment.
The post, which has gone viral on Twitter, reads: “Be me. Grind for 10 years. No one cares about the first 7.5 years. And then you finally figure out what you’re doing… And suddenly everyone hates you for still being around.” The post was accompanied by a humorous anecdote: “Wake up one day to hundreds of messages… ‘Look I made you into a Twink Ghibli style’.”
Altman’s words strike a chord with anyone who has ever embarked on a long-term professional journey. The struggle is real, and it’s not uncommon for individuals to feel like they’re toiling away in obscurity for years on end, only to be suddenly thrust into the spotlight – often with a mixed reaction.
For Altman, the journey began over a decade ago when he co-founded Summize, a search engine that aimed to revolutionize the way people accessed information online. The startup gained traction, and in 2014, Altman joined forces with Elon Musk, Y Combinator, and others to launch OpenAI, a non-profit AI research organization.
Over the years, Altman has been instrumental in shaping the direction of OpenAI, driving innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with AI. However, as he noted in his post, the journey has not been without its challenges.
The first 7.5 years of grueling work, dedication, and perseverance often go unnoticed, with many assuming that success is instant or overnight. It’s only when the individual finally starts to make progress, gain recognition, and achieve their goals that the world takes notice – often with a mixture of admiration, envy, and resentment.
Altman’s post highlights the harsh reality that many people face in their professional lives. The struggle is real, and it’s easy to feel like you’re invisible until you’re suddenly thrust into the spotlight. The subsequent backlash can be overwhelming, with some people hating you for remaining in the spotlight, while others resent you for not being there sooner.
This phenomenon is not unique to the tech industry or the world of entrepreneurship. It’s a universal experience that can be applied to various aspects of life, from academia to the arts. The pressure to constantly produce, innovate, and push boundaries can be overwhelming, and the sense of burnout is real.
Altman’s post also touches on the theme of ego and reputation. As individuals strive for success, they often become increasingly protective of their reputation and ego. The fear of failure, rejection, or criticism can be paralyzing, leading to a sense of isolation and disconnection from others.
In his post, Altman humorously pokes fun at this phenomenon, sharing an anecdote about waking up to hundreds of messages asking him to pose for a Twink Ghibli-style drawing. The attention is flattering, but it also highlights the absurdity of the situation. Who needs such attention, and what does it say about our society’s fixation on celebrity and fame?
As we reflect on Altman’s journey and the reality he describes, it’s essential to remember that success is not a destination – it’s a marathon. The grind, as he calls it, is a long-term commitment to excellence, perseverance, and innovation.
For those who are just starting out, Altman’s post serves as a reminder to stay focused, stay committed, and stay true to their vision. The world may not care for years, but with dedication and hard work, they will eventually take notice.
For those who are already established, Altman’s post serves as a reminder to stay humble, stay grounded, and stay connected to their community. The pressure to maintain a reputation, to constantly produce, and to stay ahead of the curve can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to prioritize relationships, well-being, and personal growth.
As Altman’s post goes viral, it serves as a reminder that, despite the highs and lows, the journey is what matters most. It’s the grind, the dedication, and the perseverance that ultimately define our success – not the fleeting attention or recognition we receive along the way.
