Many successful startups begin as dreams but undergo a challenging journey to fruition, requiring grit and perseverance.Execution, persistence, adaptability, and privilege are key elements in the success of a startup, alongside luck.Entrepreneurship demands personal sacrifices, intense commitment, and a deep understanding of one's domain.The allure of startups often masks the harsh realities of running a business, including personal sacrifices and enduring challenges.Some startups end up as lifestyle businesses due to lack of commitment, leading to feelings of being stuck and unfulfilled.Venture capital involvement can shift the focus of startups towards hyper-growth at the expense of sustainability and long-term vision.Raising capital can lead to time pressure, prioritization of short-term metrics over profitability, and inflated valuations.Success in entrepreneurship requires patience, authenticity, and a focus on solving genuine problems for long-term impact.The path to entrepreneurial success is marked by challenges, high stakes, and continuous pressure even after achieving milestones.Building a sustainable, impactful business often involves patience, genuine passion, and a commitment to enduring the journey.