Customer Quote by Sam Altman
“In general don't start a startup you're not willing to work on for ten years.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Y Combinator Startup School, 2015
Long‑term commitment is essential; a venture should be something you can endure for a decade, not a short‑term experiment.
In simple terms: Only start businesses you can work on for ten years.
Key Takeaway
Commit to lasting projects.
Themes
entrepreneurship
commitment
vision
Mood
determined
realistic
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- founder decisions
- investor pitches
- career planning
- product development
Key Concepts
sustainability
risk tolerance
founder identity
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you have a ten‑year vision for this idea?
- What would keep you motivated for a decade?
A Different Perspective
If you can't stay ten years, you may lack passion or realistic expectations.
