Grind for a decade, no one cares for 7.5 yrs & hates you for remaining 2.5 yrs: Altman
As the CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman is no stranger to the grueling world of startups. In a recent tweet, he shared a candid look into his experience, revealing the highs and lows of dedicating a decade to his passion. His words struck a chord with many, echoing the sentiments of countless entrepreneurs and innovators who have poured their hearts and souls into their work.
Altman’s tweet began with a relatable statement: “Be me, working at an AI startup for 10 years.” He went on to describe the trajectory of his journey, saying that after seven and a half years of hard work, nobody cared. It seemed that the initial excitement and admiration for his efforts had worn off, and he was essentially invisible to the outside world.
But then came the turning point. “Wake up one day to hundreds of messages… ‘Look, I made you into a Twink Ghibli style,'” he wrote, referencing the beloved Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli. This unexpected outpouring of attention and admiration was jarring, to say the least. It was as if Altman had suddenly become an overnight sensation, with people clamoring for his attention and admiration.
However, Altman’s tweet didn’t end there. He continued to reveal the darker side of his experience, saying that for the remaining 2.5 years of his 10-year grind, people hated him. It seemed that the sudden influx of attention had turned toxic, with people criticizing and nitpicking his work. The pressure and scrutiny became overwhelming, and Altman felt like he was under a microscope.
This dichotomy is a common phenomenon in the startup world. On the one hand, entrepreneurs often face long periods of obscurity, struggling to make their mark and gain traction. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and it requires unwavering dedication and perseverance. On the other hand, when success finally comes, it can be overwhelming and even toxic. The pressure to maintain the status quo, coupled with the constant scrutiny of the public eye, can be suffocating.
Altman’s words serve as a reminder that the journey to success is rarely linear. There are ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected detours along the way. It’s essential to be prepared for the highs and lows, and to maintain a sense of perspective and humility.
So, what can we learn from Altman’s experience? Firstly, it’s essential to understand that success is not a destination, but a journey. It’s the sum of small, incremental steps, and the willingness to adapt and evolve along the way. Secondly, it’s crucial to manage our expectations and remain grounded, even in the face of sudden success. Finally, it’s vital to surround ourselves with supportive people who understand the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial journey.
In conclusion, Altman’s tweet is a powerful reminder of the complexities and challenges of the startup world. While it may seem glamorous from the outside, it’s a grueling and often thankless endeavor. However, for those who are passionate about their work and willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be immense. As Altman himself said, “Be me, working at an AI startup for 10 years.” It’s a journey that requires dedication, resilience, and a willingness to take the good with the bad.
News Source:
https://x.com/sama/status/1904921537884676398
