What is the one mistake that is killing startups?

“Not everyone can handle the disappointment of a startup, and I think that’s one of the key things that YC helps you do.” – Michael Seibel

Michael Seibel, a group partner at Y Combinator and the managing director of YC’s startup accelerator, shares invaluable insights on common mistakes killing startups and the keys to startup success.

Drawing from his vast experience evaluating thousands of startups and co-founding Twitch, Seibel provides a unique perspective on the startup ecosystem.

Table of Contents

1. The importance of a co-founder
2. Learning comes after launch
3. The role of logical communication
4. Intellectual honesty is key
5. The danger of expecting quick results
6. The value of the YC network
7. Understanding users’ needs and motivations
8. The strategy of pivoting
9. Knowing when to stop
10. The transformation of Twitch
11. The equity split

The importance of a co-founder

Startups often face challenges when they lack a co-founder.

Sharing the load with a co-founder is not just about dividing tasks, but also about having someone to brainstorm with, bounce ideas off of, and share the journey with.

This shared experience can be crucial for maintaining the motivation and momentum needed for startup success.

Learning comes after launch

Many successful YC founders did not have their unique insight or breakthrough before or during the YC program.

Instead, most of the learning and growth happens after the initial stages, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the startup journey.