What Really Motivates a Founder? 💡 When I first entered the startup world, my motivation was simple: how often does a stranger offer you $100K to take a shot at your dream? That excitement fueled me in the early days. Then, when the rejections piled up—countless “no’s” from VCs, and even my ex-girlfriend’s dad telling me, “Your business will never be successful and neither will you”— my motivation turned to spite to prove people wrong. When I raised my first round, everything changed. Suddenly, my “why” became about making my investors proud—a responsibility I still carry today. Later, as the company grew, I found a new driver: giving back to my parents. At 36, I was able to buy them a home, which meant more to me than words can express. But at 38, leading one of the largest and fastest-growing online tire retailers, my motivations have evolved yet again. One thing I’ve learned: financial success can’t be the only motivation. It will burn you out, or you’ll achieve it and wonder, What’s next? For me, there's another factor beyond money. It’s about the impact TireAgent can make. Recently, I learned that a village belonging to someone I know was devastated by a typhoon—no drinkable water, no food. Without hesitation, I thought: I have to help. A quick call to an old fraternity brother turned into a mission to send water filters and food. The emotion on that person’s face when I shared the good news was incredibly inspiring. That urgency to make a difference has become another powerful motivation for me. But another force has always been there, quietly shaping my journey: my love for the industry. Since I was 18, I’ve been obsessed with the tire industry—the people, the camaraderie, the evolution over time. This passion has carried me through ups and downs. Last year, that love was rekindled like never before. There’s something uniquely fulfilling about not just growing a company but building in an industry you genuinely love. I want to grow this business to be the best and the biggest in the space, setting a new standard for what’s possible. And beyond the industry, I’ve realized: I love the journey itself. The late nights, the wins, the failures that teach you everything—it’s all part of the ride. That’s where character builds and growth happens. So, why am I sharing this? 1️⃣ Your motivation will evolve. What starts you on the path isn’t necessarily what keeps you going. Find the deeper “why.” 2️⃣ Financial gain can’t be the only driver. Once you’ve “made it,” you need something more—a purpose, a passion, or a love for building. 3️⃣ Fall in love with the journey. The ups, downs, and grind make the destination worth it. 4️⃣ Passion for your industry matters. Loving the work makes even the hardest days feel worthwhile. So, what drives you?
Great points! I mirror all 4. Evolution sustained by passion. Embrace the grind. Special Industry!
Leading by example! Awesome work making things happen so quickly!
Paying my own way through life.
Antara Capital - Partner (Event-Driven Equities)
2wJared K., thanks for sharing all the paths of your growth journey, in all its various paths. Very inspirational! Congrats on your personal and professional success, and of course proud (and lucky) to be an early investor in your TireAgent dream! 🛞🔥