What has most surprised you about founding a startup?

Starting something is not the hardest part, making it work is actually tougher.

When I started, like years ago with my first startup, I strongly believed having a good product is the most important thing to be successful but I realized while it is still important, not really the deciding factor. What matters is relationship building, community-building, and being smart with GTM.

The never ending dilemma between building what people want vs. Building what people need.

How truly challenging the "getting it started" phase would be.

When done with the right purpose, results come in quicker than expected

Learnt that the journey is quite long. And often collaboration helps you play this game even longer than having to compete with other startups.

Really interesting to read so may people's takes. For me, I'd say how founding something can come out of nowhere, especially in regard to a side project!

how much marketing should be involved

It's a marathon.