Here’s a bold statement: You’ll never truly understand the grit and sacrifice behind entrepreneurship until you’ve tried it yourself. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not the flashy exits or funding rounds that define the journey, but the sleepless nights, countless failures, and relentless uncertainty. CRED founder Kunal Shah recently drove this point home in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The only way one truly learns to respect other entrepreneurs is not by seeing their success or fame, but by trying to be an entrepreneur oneself.” But here’s where it gets controversial—does admiration for entrepreneurs mean anything if you’ve never walked a mile in their shoes? Let’s dive in.
From the outside, entrepreneurship often looks like a highlight reel—success stories, lavish launches, and media buzz. Yet, Shah argues that the real essence of entrepreneurship is invisible to onlookers. It’s the behind-the-scenes grind, the emotional rollercoaster, and the sheer resilience required to keep going when everything seems to be falling apart. When you attempt to build something—whether it’s a startup, a side project, or even a passion-driven initiative—you begin to grasp the immense effort it takes. As Shah puts it, “That’s when one begins to respect every entrepreneur, regardless of their success.”
This insight isn’t just a feel-good quote—it’s a wake-up call. Thousands of readers resonated with Shah’s words, acknowledging that true respect for entrepreneurs emerges only after you’ve faced rejection, taken financial risks, and shouldered the weight of personal responsibility. It’s one thing to admire someone’s success; it’s another to understand the sacrifices they made to get there. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can you genuinely appreciate an entrepreneur’s journey without experiencing it firsthand?
Entrepreneurship teaches lessons that no amount of admiration or observation can replicate. It’s about learning from failures, adapting to setbacks, and developing empathy for those who dare to create something from nothing. For many, Shah’s perspective is a refreshing counterpoint in a world obsessed with results over effort. True respect, he suggests, isn’t about celebrating fame or wealth—it’s about recognizing the courage it takes to start, the humility to learn, and the persistence to keep going.
Shah’s post underscores a timeless truth: entrepreneurship is no shortcut to glory. It’s a journey of grit, growth, and empathy. So, the next time you hear about a successful entrepreneur, remember—their story isn’t just about the destination; it’s about every step they took to get there. What’s your take? Do you think you can truly respect entrepreneurs without trying it yourself? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments!
