An unwritten "founder code" exists in Silicon Valley. A key violation is abandoning a well-performing, venture-backed company to start a new one in a hotter space (e.g., AI). This prematurely sells out investors and violates the trust placed in the founder.

Snyk's founder planned to take a full year off after leaving his corporate job. He lasted just eight days before incorporating his next company. This highlights that for serial entrepreneurs, the 'itch' to build is a powerful force, and intended breaks are often just short incubation periods for the next big idea.

Many founders start companies simply because they want the title, not because they are obsessed with a mission. This is a critical mistake, as only a deep, personal passion for a problem can sustain a founder through the inevitable hardships of building a startup.

Despite having the funds, a majority of founders regret making large 'trophy' purchases right after selling. The sentiment that 'the things you own end up owning you' holds true, as these assets add new responsibilities and stress during a major life adjustment.

Many founders who successfully exit their companies feel depressed and unfulfilled, realizing their best idea is behind them. The alternative is to reject the exit-focused mindset and commit to building a durable, lifelong business, finding satisfaction in the infinite game.

Contrary to the dream of retiring after an exit, data shows 92% of founders start another project, even those with nine-figure exits. The drive to build is a core part of their identity that a large financial windfall does not eliminate.

Before officially starting, founders are in a '-1 to 0' phase. Instead of rushing, they should take months or even a year to find a core purpose they can commit to for a decade. This deep conviction provides immense peace, prevents reactive pivots, and sets a stable foundation for the long term.

After selling his company, the founder experienced six months of bliss followed by a period of feeling useless and lacking purpose. This 'valley of shadows' is a common but rarely discussed phenomenon where accomplished founders struggle with a loss of identity and intensity, ultimately driving them to build again.

Lyft's co-founder describes his post-exit journey not as a victory lap, but as a three-month period of relief followed by feeling lost. The transition from an all-consuming role to unstructured time is a significant psychological challenge that a margarita-fueled vacation can't solve.