The real gift in both medicine and investing is not the success itself but the journey we undertake and the lessons we learn along the way.
I often see parallels between the resilience required in IVF and the tenacity needed in startups. Both fields demand patience, perseverance, and the ability to find hope in the face of adversity. This is why I believe that startups can learn a lot from IVF patients—the ability to keep going despite the odds is a trait that serves both founders and patients well.
Gratitude, I’ve come to realize, is a two-way street. Just as we should be grateful for the trust our patients place in us, we must also be open to receiving their gratitude. It’s a moment of connection that goes beyond the clinical outcomes. It’s about being part of their journey, and that is a profound privilege.
I remember a particularly challenging case early in my career where the outcome was not as we had hoped. The patient, despite her disappointment, thanked me for my care and dedication. Initially, I brushed off her gratitude, feeling that I hadn’t done enough. But over time, I learned that accepting gratitude, even when things don’t go as planned, is essential. It acknowledges the effort, the intent, and the shared experience. It’s a humbling reminder that healing is not always about curing; sometimes, it’s about being there and providing support.
In the world of startups, the same principle applies. Founders must learn to accept gratitude from their teams, investors, and customers. It’s these connections that fuel the drive to innovate and push forward. As an investor, I find immense satisfaction in being part of a founder’s journey, sharing in their challenges and triumphs. It’s not just about the returns on investment but the relationships built and the mutual gratitude exchanged.
Gratitude is the quiet force that keeps us grounded, reminding us of the value in each moment and each interaction.