Insights Startup Design

Motivational Content for Entrepreneurs in the Dip

Published July 20, 2026

Original publish date: January 8, 2024

“The Dip” is Seth Godin’s term for the period following the initial excitement of starting something (a venture, for example) and before you start getting the satisfaction of seeing real results. Psychologically I’ve found it to be the hardest part of being a founder.

“Winners are really just the best quitters. [Seth] Godin shows that winners quit fast, quit often, and quit without guilt—until they commit to beating the right Dip.”

Goodreads

So just for fun, here’s some motivation for those of you in The Dip.

1. Prince

You are a badass. You will get through it and come out on top.

2. Shia LeBoeuf

Don’t overthink any of it.