Business-start-up Quote by Felix Dennis
““Once you believe that you are infallible, that success will automatically lead to more success, and that you have "got it made," reality will be sure to give you a rude wake-up call. Believing your own bullshit is always a perilous activity, but never more fatal than for the owner of a start-up venture.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Business Magazine, 2005
Believing oneself infallible leads to complacency; reality will challenge overconfidence, especially in startups where hubris can be fatal.
In simple terms: Overconfidence invites harsh reality checks.
Key Takeaway
Stay humble and test assumptions.
Themes
business
psychology
entrepreneurship
Mood
cautious
motivational
Type
advisory
inspirational
When to use this quote
- startup founding
- investment decisions
- leadership training
Key Concepts
hubris
failure
startup risk
self‑deception
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can prevent self‑deception?
- How can founders balance confidence with humility?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can also stem from necessary optimism.
