Grind for a decade, no one cares for 7.5 yrs & hates you for remaining 2.5 yrs: Altman
In a recent post, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman shared a candid and relatable account of his journey, highlighting the highs and lows of working at an AI startup. The post, which has been making waves online, offers a glimpse into the life of a visionary entrepreneur, and it’s a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt the grind of building something from scratch.
Altman’s post begins with a tongue-in-cheek remark that resonates with many of us: “Be me.” The statement is a nod to the popular internet meme, but it also serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that come with pursuing one’s passions. For Altman, the journey began over a decade ago, when he first started working on AI projects.
As he recounts, the early years were marked by long hours, tireless efforts, and a sense of purpose that drove him to keep pushing forward. “After my 10-year grind,” he writes, “most people didn’t care about the first 7.5 years. But they hated me for the remaining 2.5 years.” This stark contrast highlights the double-edged sword of success: while it’s easy to ignore the struggles of others, it’s equally difficult to tolerate their achievements.
The first 7.5 years of Altman’s journey were marked by solitude, uncertainty, and an unrelenting drive to make his vision a reality. During this period, he faced numerous setbacks, rejections, and naysayers who doubted his ability to succeed. Despite these challenges, Altman persevered, fueled by his passion for AI and his conviction that the technology had the potential to transform the world.
Fast-forward to the remaining 2.5 years, and the landscape changes dramatically. As Altman’s project gains momentum, he finds himself at the forefront of the AI revolution, with his work receiving widespread recognition and accolades. However, this newfound success comes with a price: the scrutiny, criticism, and envy of others.
Altman’s post is a scathing commentary on the human tendency to judge others based on their perceived success or failure. He writes, “Wake up one day to hundreds of messages… ‘Look I made you into a twink Ghibli style.'” While this might seem like a harmless compliment, it speaks to a larger issue: the way we often reduce others to their accomplishments, rather than acknowledging their struggles and humanity.
Altman’s post is a powerful reminder that success is never a solo achievement. It’s the culmination of countless sacrifices, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. As he so eloquently puts it, “After my 10-year grind, most people didn’t care about the first 7.5 years. But they hated me for the remaining 2.5 years.”
The post has sparked a lively discussion online, with many people sharing their own experiences of being misunderstood or judged based on their achievements. It’s a timely reminder that success is not a destination, but a journey â one that’s marked by perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one’s vision.
As we reflect on Altman’s post, we’re reminded that success is often a double-edged sword. While it brings recognition and accolades, it also attracts criticism and envy. It’s a delicate balancing act that requires us to stay grounded, humble, and true to ourselves.
In the end, Altman’s post is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s vision. As OpenAI CEO, he’s a pioneer in the field of AI, and his work has the potential to transform the world. While the journey has been marked by its share of challenges and controversies, Altman’s post serves as a powerful reminder that success is never a solo achievement â it’s the culmination of countless sacrifices, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt.
News Source: https://x.com/sama/status/1904921537884676398
