Grind for a decade, no one cares for 7.5 yrs & hates you for remaining 2.5 yrs: Altman
In a recent Twitter post, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman shared a candid and humorous reflection on his journey in the AI startup. He wrote, “Be me,” and went on to describe how after a decade of hard work, most people didn’t care about the first 7.5 years of his grind, but instead, hated him for remaining 2.5 years at the top.
Altman’s tweet sparked a wave of curiosity and empathy from his followers, who could relate to the struggles and frustrations that come with building a successful career. As we delve into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation, it’s essential to understand the highs and lows that individuals like Altman face.
The concept of grinding, or putting in the effort and dedication required to achieve success, is not new. Many people have heard the phrase “10,000 hours” coined by Malcolm Gladwell, which suggests that it takes a significant amount of time and practice to become an expert in any field. However, Altman’s tweet highlights the often-overlooked reality that the journey to success is not a linear one.
In the early stages of his career, Altman likely faced numerous challenges, from skepticism and doubt to self-doubt and frustration. It’s easy to imagine that during those 7.5 years, he encountered many people who didn’t believe in his vision or his abilities. They might have seen him as just another ambitious individual chasing a pipe dream.
As Altman continued to push forward, persevering through the difficulties and setbacks, he likely gained a small but dedicated group of supporters who believed in him. These people saw the potential in his work and were willing to invest their time, energy, and resources in helping him achieve his goals.
Fast-forward to the 2.5 years when Altman became the CEO of OpenAI, and suddenly, the same people who didn’t care about his early struggles now hated him for his success. This phenomenon is not unique to Altman; it’s a common pattern in the world of entrepreneurship and innovation. As individuals achieve success, they often become the target of jealousy, resentment, and even hate.
This type of negativity can be overwhelming and demotivating, especially when it comes from people who once believed in and supported you. However, Altman’s tweet suggests that he has learned to rise above the noise and focus on the positive aspects of his journey.
In his tweet, Altman also shared a personal anecdote that highlights the lighter side of his experiences. He mentioned waking up one day to hundreds of messages on his social media platforms, all congratulating him on a piece of fan art created in his likeness. The art was inspired by the Japanese animation style of Studio Ghibli, which is known for its whimsical and fantastical world-building.
This type of fan engagement is a testament to the power of social media and the impact that individuals can have on one another’s lives. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of criticism and negativity, there are people who genuinely care and appreciate the work that we do.
In conclusion, Altman’s tweet serves as a powerful reminder that the journey to success is not an easy one. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, and moments of triumph and defeat. As we strive to achieve our goals, we must be prepared to face the haters and the doubters, while also embracing the love and support of those who believe in us.
Here’s to Altman and all the entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives who have grind for a decade, only to be met with indifference for 7.5 years and hatred for the remaining 2.5 years. May their perseverance and dedication continue to inspire and motivate others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles they may face.
News Source:
https://x.com/sama/status/1904921537884676398
