I always give founders one big disclaimer when they ask for advice about what it's like building in my space: My advice might sound more pessimistic than they expect. (And, I've had to say this a lot recently!) I'll absolutely share the hard-won lessons. Why? Because founders who’ve lived in a problem space carry the full weight of all the hidden challenges & the stuff you only see after years of trying to build, sell, and survive. None of the superficial stuff you see in the media. The job of the founder asking for advice is to hold both truths at once: - Stay optimistic enough to believe you might solve challenges differently. - Respect the challenges but be brutally honest with yourself if they’re ultimately surmountable Because yes, all these challenges are real. But sometimes all it takes is a fresh lens, new timing, or a different wedge to turn those same challenges into an edge. (Maybe! 😆) TAKEAWAY: When you ask experienced founders for advice, absorb and be a good judge of the likely more pessimistic view of their lessons. View original post on LinkedIn.