When you set out to build a software product, there is a fork in the road that we all approach. We have a choice to make: the bootstrapped path or the VC route?  The answer to this question depends on who you are and what your goals are. Most importantly, it depends on the problem you're trying to solve as well. There is also a newer 3rd option that is growing in popularity. I will discuss that later in this podcast. This could be a great option for bootstrappers that want to build long-term sustainable companies but need some funding to do so.   For me, I obviously went the bootstrapped path. Let me explain my reasoning for why this was the right path for me. Let me first say that I'm thankful the VC route exists. I realize that some big, pie-in-the-sky business ideas would not be possible without it.  Look at AirBnB, Uber, Spotify . They all took massive capital to build and scale. That's because these products involve network effects, and needed to jump through legal h

I've been able to remain consistently productive for years now but I wasn't always this way. Some of what I know now came from my past mistakes. Bootstrapping companies solo, made consistency a necessity for me. It's all on me. There isn't anyone to shift responsibilities to. I realize to be successful at this game, I need to be the best version of myself. I also need to get the most out of my days.  My productivity is enabled by 4 core pillars. Purpose, focus, a task management system, and my self-care routine. All four are necessary to maximize productivity.  Your system will likely look different from mine though because it's not a one size fits all approach. We all need to design our own systems that allow us to consistently show up and do our best work. It's also important to keep your system in permanent beta by always seeking to improve it.    Purpose Purpose comes first. We need a strong WHY to remain discipline overtime. Our purpose is the compass that

  Self-limiting beliefs kill far more dreams than failure ever could. They are the insidious restraints that keep many from ever trying. Failure doesn't even get the opportunity in most cases, sadly. Beliefs are what thoughts and actions are made of. They can serve us or limit us. However, we have the power to decide our beliefs. We're able to replace toxic, self-limiting beliefs with those that truly empower us. To be the best versions of ourselves, we need the right beliefs to get there. But where do self-limiting beliefs come from? Some are handed down to us through our upbringing, while others come from our experiences. Advertising and media are also additional sources that influence our beliefs. We can't choose our upbringing and we don't always have the ability to decide our experiences. Some experiences like having a learning disability or the country you were born in are chosen for us. We can choose though how we process these experiences. Let me tell you my sto

When someone says the word wealth, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Is it simply the dollars in your bank account and the possessions you own, or something else?  What if I told you financial wealth is just scratching the surface? As humans we also depend on health, social, time, intellectual, and existential wealth for our well-being. Do you sacrifice health, autonomy and purpose in exchange for a pay check or are you harboring insidious habits that have long-term cost? Often in society, we emphasize financial wealth over these other forms of wealth that are more important. I see financial wealth as the least important type of wealth that exists. There are countless examples of miserable people throughout history who had more money than they could ever spend. This is because happiness is not a product of consumption... The ultimate goal in life is simply to be happy. So, I prioritize these often forgotten forms of wealth before financial wealth.  We frequently trade fina

  Andrew Huberman recently covered a science-backed journaling method for processing stressful events. This is not your typical journaling technique. The actual process is far from enjoyable, though if you’re able to endure the emotional challenges, the benefits can be worth it. This journaling method helps process and reframe difficult experiences, leading to positive brain and nervous system changes. The benefits include: Reduced anxiety and improved sleep. Stronger immunity and fewer autoimmune symptoms. Enhanced memory, decision-making, and other cognitive functions. The Method: Write about a negative experience that was highly stressful for you and potentially traumatic. Four writing experiences about the same topic within four weeks, ranging from 15-30 minutes. Pen and paper or digital. It does not matter. Write continuously, without worrying about grammar or accuracy. Give yourself time to calm down after writing (5-15 minutes). After completing all four journal entries, review

  In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become caught up in the endless loop of tasks, distractions, and responsibilities. Amidst this whirlwind, the idea of living intentionally stands as a beacon, urging us to pause, reflect, and align our actions with our core values. Intentional living is more than a catchphrase; it's a lifestyle choice that can significantly enhance the quality of our lives and our overall effectiveness. The Essence of Intentional Living: Living intentionally means making choices that align with your personal values, aspirations, and well-being. Instead of being reactive to the world around you, it's about proactively designing your life in a way that resonates with your inner self. The Science of Intentionality: While ancient philosophies and traditions have long touted the benefits of living with purpose and intention, modern science is now catching up. Research has shown that individuals who set clear intentions and live in alignment with th

Gratitude, in its simplest form, is the act of recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of life. It is more than just saying "thank you." When practiced deliberately, gratitude can be a transformative tool that enriches our lives in countless ways. The Science Behind Gratitude: Modern science has begun to unravel the profound impact of gratitude on our well-being. Several studies have shown that regular gratitude practice can lead to increased happiness, reduced depression, and a greater sense of overall well-being. A study conducted by Dr. Robert A. Emmons at the University of California, Davis, and his colleague Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami revealed that those who journaled about things they were grateful for felt more optimistic and better about their lives. Additionally, they exhibited fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation. Gratitude Journaling: A Simple Yet Effective Method: One of the most popular me