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Paul Graham on what motivates founders

Y Combinator · Sep 05, 2026 · Other Signals

Founders are primarily motivated by fear of failure.

“What motivates them at any given moment is the fear of disaster.”

Paul Graham discusses the primary motivations that drive founders, emphasizing that the fear of failure often outweighs the pursuit of wealth. This perspective sheds light on the psychological challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the startup landscape.

founder motivation entrepreneurship Y Combinator

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