Startups are often surrounded by a certain mystique, frequently portrayed as thrilling journeys fueled by passion and innovation. While it is indeed an exciting endeavor, the reality is far more demanding. Running a startup requires grit, strategy, and focus on execution. Through my work with startups and small tech companies as a consultant and mentor, I’ve encountered several myths that deserve to be challenged. Below are a few I’d like to address. By dispelling these myths, I hope to encourage a grounded and realistic approach to startup building.
Myth: “Being a generalist and visionary is enough to succeed.”
Reality: Vision is essential, but success is built on execution. Startups require digging into the nitty-gritty details—developing a solid product concept, crafting a clear roadmap, outlining a realistic business plan with resource allocation, and managing a commercialization strategy. Simultaneously, founders must handle sales pipeline management, cash flow, and even legal challenges. Being hands-on and detail-oriented is non-negotiable.
Myth: “Competence will develop over time.”
Reality: Time is a luxury most startups can’t afford. In today’s fast-paced market, building competencies organically often takes too long. Borrowing or buying expertise—through hiring skilled professionals, partnering with consultants, or leveraging external resources through outsourcing —is often the fastest way to bridge gaps. Startups that wait to “figure it out” may find themselves outpaced by competitors who acted decisively.
Myth: “Investors are drawn to charismatic leaders.”
Reality: Charisma is very important indeed, but investors are also data-driven. In an increasingly cautious investment climate, founders need to show measurable progress. Revenue traction, user engagement, and other key metrics matter most when it comes to due diligence. Moreover, experienced founders with a proven track record are seen as safer bets. Startups should prioritize demonstrating growth potential backed by solid metrics and solid competencies.
Myth: “When things get tough, you just exit.”
Reality: Exiting a startup is rarely straightforward, especially during challenging times. Options like acquisition, buyouts, or liquidation can be burdened with low valuations, tough negotiations, and limited returns. In some cases, liquidation may only cover debts, leaving founders with minimal financial gains—or worse, additional liabilities. Having a clear exit strategy including contingency plans is important to navigate the complexities of leaving the business under less-than-ideal circumstances.
Myth: Positive thinking will lead us to success”
Positive thinking can be a powerful tool—it brings energy and optimism to the daily hustle. However, what truly drives success in a startup is persistence and critical thinking. While positivity fosters resilience, it can also lead to overly enthusiastic evaluations of business opportunities and ultimately, overinvestment in the wrong areas. Success requires a balance: critical thinking to analyze opportunities objectively and courage to act decisively, backed by the right competencies. It’s this combination that enables informed decisions and sustainable growth.
These are just a few of the common misconceptions that I frequently encounter. The startup journey is a balancing between strategy, execution, and adaptability. By dispelling these myths, I hope to encourage a more grounded and realistic approach to startup building.
About the author:
Agnieszka Węglarz is an experienced ex-corporate ICT manager, a long time practitioner, business consultant and mentor. She helps tech startups and SMEs to streamline their businesses with limited resources. In her workshops and projects she concentrates on practical aspects of business growth. She runs her own consultancy business and cooperates with Google for Startups as an international mentor in business modeling and growth strategies.