What if we run out of goals?

What if we run out of goals?

Author: Startups.com June 30, 2025 Duration: 40:59

In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will talk about what happens when you hit all your big goals and realize there might not be any more mountains left to climb. They discuss the complex feelings and identity crises that can emerge when success is achieved, and reflect on how to find new meaning and satisfaction beyond traditional goal-setting. The conversation touches on personal anecdotes, the concept of enjoying the process, and how to appreciate the journey in a fulfilling way.

Resources:
Startup Therapy Podcast 
https://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapy
Website
https://www.startups.com/begin
LinkedIn 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startups-co/

Join our Network of Top Founders 
Wil Schroter
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilschroter/
Ryan Rutan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rutan/

What to listen for:
00:27 The Identity Crisis of Achieving Goals
01:05 Personal Reflections on Goal Setting
02:25 The Evolution of Goals Over Time
04:14 The Reality of Achieving Big Goals
07:04 The Trap of Sensationalizing Goals
10:58 The Diminishing Returns of Goal Achievement
19:06 The Two Paths of Goal Setting: Pleasure vs. Pain
20:40 Understanding Pain and Relief
21:42 The Myth of Success Equals Happiness
22:32 Existential Goals and Realizations
23:31 The Challenge of Finding Fulfillment
25:23 Enjoying the Journey vs. The Destination
29:12 Reevaluating Ambitions and Goals
33:11 Building for the Sake of Creation
36:59 Infinite Games and Lifelong Pursuits


Building a company is far more chaotic and personal than any business school case study lets on. Startup Therapy from Startups.com digs into that reality, moving past polished success stories to focus on the raw, unvarnished journey. Hosts Wil Schroter and Ryan Rutan, who have each navigated these trenches themselves, lead conversations that feel more like essential conversations between founders than a standard interview show. They tackle the specific pressures that come with trying to transform an idea into something meaningful-the financial strain, the team dynamics, the personal sacrifices, and the frequent moments of doubt that rarely make the keynote speech. This podcast operates on a simple premise: the best guidance comes from those who have been there, not from abstract theory. Each episode is a candid session, dissecting the professional hurdles and the intense emotional toll that founders manage daily. You’ll hear direct talk about fundraising fails, partnership conflicts, burnout, and the small victories that keep everything moving forward. It’s a resource for anyone in the thick of building something, offering practical perspectives and a sense of shared experience when the path gets especially tough. The dialogue is straightforward and focused on actionable insight, providing a genuine look at the resilience required to change the world, one startup at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Startup Therapy
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