Skip to content

It was 1999, and we were building a way for college kids…

“It was 1999, and we were building a way for college kids to create online profiles for the purpose of sharing... with employers. Oops. I vividly remember the moment I realized my company was going to fail. My co-founder and I were at our wits' end. By 2001, the dot-com bubble had burst, and we had…” quote by Eric Ries
Download Open image
“It was 1999, and we were building a way for college kids to create online profiles for the purpose of sharing... with employers. Oops. I vividly remember the moment I realized my company was going to fail. My co-founder and I were at our wits' end. By 2001, the dot-com bubble had burst, and we had spent all our money.”

Eric Ries

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Startups often face inevitable failure; recognizing limits early can prevent wasted resources and guide pivots.

In simple terms: Failure is common; learn early.

Key Takeaway

Identify warning signs and adapt quickly.

Themes

entrepreneurship risk pivot

Mood

cautious realistic

Type

practical motivational

When to use this quote

  • startup launch
  • fundraising
  • product development

Key Concepts

resource management market fit

Questions to Reflect On

  • What indicators suggest a pivot is needed?
  • How can you test assumptions faster?
A Different Perspective

Over‑optimism can blind founders to reality.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Eric Ries

Explore all 138 Eric Ries quotes

More Bubble quotes

Browse all 325 Bubble quotes