What Makes The Top 10% Of Founders Different?

Summary

The top 10% of founders differentiate themselves through their ability to execute. Key points include:

Great founders possess certain key traits.
Michael Seibel shares insights based on his experience with over 2,500 founders at Y Combinator.

Great founders execute

Great founders consistently set goals, take action, and learn from their experiences.
They are able to follow through on their plans and make adjustments as needed.
They never get stuck in the execution step and always find a way to get things done.
They gain valuable insights from the process.

Formidability

Formidability is a topic that explores the traits of the top 10% of founders. One key trait is the ability to consistently get things done, which creates intimidation and demands respect. This ability to execute is crucial in establishing formidability.

Formidability focuses on traits of top 10% founders
Ability to consistently get things done creates intimidation and demands respect
Execution is crucial in establishing formidability

Clear communication

Clear communication is crucial for founders in startups, as it enables effective communication with various stakeholders and facilitates advice, investment, and recruitment. The ability to explain the business concisely and gain respect distinguishes top founders from others.

Internal motivation

Internal motivation is a key characteristic of top 10% startup founders.
It is the ability to stay motivated and passionate despite failure and setbacks.
These founders remain focused on finding solutions and moving forward.
They are not easily discouraged by mistakes or wrong decisions.
Maintaining motivation in the face of defeat is crucial for startup success.

Note that "idea" is not on this list

The most profound aspect of the text is that the top 10% of founders are distinguished by factors other than their idea.
Focusing too much on the idea can lead to overthinking and pretending to have more knowledge than one actually does.