New challenge for the year

Hello, fellow dreamers and doers! I've recently embarked on a thrilling yet daunting journey into the startup world. After many years in the more structured and predictable corporate landscape, diving into startup life feels like jumping into the deep end of the pool – exhilarating, a bit scary, but oh so rewarding.

A New Chapter, A Fresh Challenge

The startup ecosystem is an entirely different beast compared to the corporate world. In this new chapter, I'm not just a designer; I'm a co-founder. This means wearing multiple hats, often all at once. From strategising user experience to generating client leads and prepping for investor meetings, every day is a kaleidoscope of roles and responsibilities.

Excitement Mixed with Uncertainty

There's no sugarcoating it – startups are a gamble. Studies indicate that in the UK and Europe, the startup failure rate hovers around 90%. It's a stark reminder that the path I've chosen is laden with challenges and uncertainties. But isn't that where the excitement lies? In the unknown, in the possibility of creating something truly groundbreaking?

Learning Beyond Design

One of the most exhilarating aspects of this journey is the opportunity to learn and grow beyond my design expertise. Suddenly, I find myself delving into the nuances of business development, understanding the nitty-gritty of financial projections, and mastering the art of pitching to potential investors. It's like going back to school, but the lessons are immediate, real, and incredibly impactful.

The Start-up Rollercoaster

Let's be real: startup life is not a smooth ride. There are days when everything clicks – when the team's energy is electric, and we feel unstoppable. Then there are days when the weight of 'what-ifs' and 'maybes' feels overwhelming. But here's the catch – every hurdle, every setback, is a chance to learn, adapt, and pivot. It's all part of the startup rollercoaster!

Embracing the Multifaceted Role

As a co-founder, I'm constantly learning to balance my creative instincts with the pragmatism required in business. It's a dance between being an artist and an entrepreneur, and each step is a lesson in harmony. Whether it's thinking about the product market fit or brainstorming with my team, every aspect is a piece of the larger puzzle that is our startup.

Looking Ahead

The future is a canvas of possibilities. Yes, the statistics are daunting, but they also fuel my determination to be part of the successful 10%. This journey is more than just building a business; it's about personal growth, about pushing boundaries, and about making a dent in the universe, one small step at a time.

So here's to the leap of faith, to the ups and downs of startup life, and to the incredible learning curve that lies ahead. As I navigate this new world, I'm reminded of a saying that resonates now more than ever: "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." And love it, I do.