I was in the clinic last week, reviewing yet another failed IVF cycle with a patient. Her eyes were filled with a mix of disappointment and frustration, emotions that are far too familiar in my line of work. As we talked, she asked me a question that has been echoing in my thoughts ever since: “Why does this have to take so long?” It got me thinking about patience — a virtue that not only lies at the heart of fertility treatments but also plays a crucial role in entrepreneurship.
In both fields, patience is more than just a virtue; it’s a necessity. In fertility treatments, the journey is often long and arduous, filled with emotional highs and lows. Patients come to me with hope, but also with a clock ticking in their minds. They want results, and they want them fast. However, the reality is that most IVF cycles fail, and achieving a “take-home baby” can take multiple attempts. It’s a process that demands resilience and, above all, patience.
Similarly, in the world of entrepreneurship, the expectation is often set for quick success. Founders come to me seeking investment, armed with ambitious plans and a burning desire to conquer the market. Yet, like in fertility treatments, the journey to building a successful startup is rarely straightforward. It requires navigating uncertainties, adapting to changes, and enduring failures — all of which necessitate a patient mindset.
I’ve had the privilege of investing in several startups over the years, and one common thread I’ve noticed is that the most successful founders are those who understand the value of patience. They know that building a company takes time, and they’re willing to put in the hard work without expecting immediate rewards. They embrace the process, learning from their mistakes and iterating their product until they find the right fit.
In contrast, I’ve seen founders who are in a rush to scale, eager to show rapid growth and secure the next round of funding. They often end up making hasty decisions, prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability. It’s a risky path, one that can lead to burnout or even failure.
Patience in both fertility treatments and entrepreneurship involves managing expectations. As a doctor, I have to be candid with my patients, explaining that while science has advanced, it’s not infallible. There are no guarantees, and each cycle is a step forward, regardless of the outcome. Similarly, as an investor, I advise founders to focus on building a solid foundation, even if it means slower initial growth. It’s about playing the long game, not just chasing quick wins.
The financial aspect cannot be ignored either. Fertility treatments can be expensive, with many patients paying considerable out-of-pocket expenses. The frustrations are compounded by financial stress, yet those who persevere understand that their investment is in the possibility of a future family. It’s a mindset that successful entrepreneurs share — viewing their time, effort, and money as investments in their vision.
In my experience, the key to fostering patience lies in communication and support. For fertility patients, a transparent and empathetic relationship with their provider can make a significant difference. They need to feel heard and supported, with their concerns addressed and their journey respected.
In the startup ecosystem, founders benefit from mentors who provide guidance and encouragement, reminding them that setbacks are part of the process. A supportive network can be invaluable, offering perspective and helping maintain focus on the bigger picture.
Both fields also teach us about resilience. Fertility treatments and entrepreneurship are fraught with disappointments, yet those who succeed are often those who refuse to give up. Whether it’s a patient who endures multiple IVF cycles or a founder who pivots their business model in response to challenges, resilience is rooted in patience.
Of course, patience does not mean complacency. It’s not about waiting passively for things to happen. In both domains, active patience involves continuous effort, learning, and adaptation. For patients, it means adhering to medical advice, making lifestyle changes, and maintaining hope. For entrepreneurs, it involves refining their product, understanding market demands, and being open to feedback.
In the end, patience is a lesson in humility. It reminds us that we are not always in control, that some things take time to unfold. Yet, when we embrace patience, we give ourselves the space to grow, to learn, and ultimately, to succeed.
As I reflect on the conversation with my patient, I am reminded that patience is not just a virtue but a skill — one that can be nurtured and developed. In a world that often values speed and immediate results, patience allows us to appreciate the journey, to find meaning in the process, and to emerge stronger on the other side. Whether in the clinic or the boardroom, it’s a lesson worth embracing.
So, to those embarking on the path of fertility treatments or entrepreneurship, I say: embrace patience. It’s the quiet strength that will guide you through the uncertainties, the challenges, and the waiting. And in patience, you may find not just the outcome you desire, but a deeper understanding of yourself and your journey.