Most startups think investors are the missing ingredient to success. But let’s be honest—most startups don’t need them. There’s no shortage of stories where companies raised massive funding, only to crumble under the weight of their own growth, lose control of their vision, or be forced into decisions that went against their values. The truth is simple: you don’t need investors. You need proof of concept.

“I’ll get there.” It sounds harmless, even hopeful. But in reality, it’s a trap — a comforting lie we tell ourselves so we can avoid facing the truth: you are already here.

For those who struggle — I see you. 👀I’ve been where you are today. I remember hoping, hungering, and wishing that the fog in my head — that aching in my gut — would finally give way to the fire burning deep within me. The ambition. The longing. The dream of a better life that refused to die.