> I lost about $300k (opportunity cost) bootstrapping a startup over almost 3 years. This is why some say: if you are going to fail, fail early. Bootstrapping

> I lost about $300k (opportunity cost) bootstrapping a startup over almost 3 years. This is why some say: if you are going to fail, fail early. Bootstrapping is great if you can see a light at the end of the tunnel, if the anticipated losses are easy for you to swallow. > I think the startup game is extremely dangerous and the risks are often intentionally hidden In the end, as a founder, you'll have find a way to run the company to profitability, or shut it down quickly (before burning millions). The repercussions are severe whether you fail at bootstrapping or in a VC-funded situation, don't let it be that way. It's not gambling, it's the founders' job to ensure things work out well.