In the fast-paced world of startups, founders are often told to stay humble and “leave their ego at the door.” But Anupam Mittal, a prominent judge on Shark Tank India, has a different take—one that challenges conventional wisdom.
Speaking candidly about entrepreneurship, Mittal argued that completely suppressing one’s ego might actually do more harm than good. According to him, ego, when balanced correctly, can be a powerful driver of ambition, resilience, and innovation.
Why Ego Isn’t Always the Enemy
Anupam Mittal believes that telling founders to eliminate their ego entirely is misguided advice. In his view, ego often fuels the confidence required to build something from scratch. Without a certain level of self-belief—even stubbornness—it can be difficult for entrepreneurs to push through failures, criticism, and uncertainty.
He emphasizes that ego is not inherently negative. Instead, it becomes problematic only when it turns into arrogance or prevents founders from listening to feedback. A healthy ego, he explains, helps entrepreneurs stay committed to their vision, even when others doubt them.
Confidence vs Arrogance: Knowing the Difference
Mittal draws a clear line between confidence and arrogance. While confidence allows founders to take bold risks and stand by their ideas, arrogance can blind them to reality.
In the startup ecosystem, feedback from investors, mentors, and customers is crucial. Ignoring this input due to an inflated ego can lead to poor decision-making. On the other hand, a grounded sense of self-worth can help founders absorb criticism while still maintaining their core vision.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The insights shared by Anupam Mittal offer valuable lessons for both new and experienced founders:
- Believe in your vision: A certain level of ego can help you stay focused and motivated.
- Stay open to learning: Confidence should not block constructive criticism.
- Balance is key: Too little ego may lead to self-doubt, while too much can hinder growth.
- Adapt when needed: Successful founders know when to stand firm and when to pivot.
The Reality of Building a Startup
Startup journeys are rarely smooth. Founders face constant challenges—funding issues, market competition, and operational hurdles. In such an environment, self-belief becomes essential.
Mittal’s perspective highlights that ego, when channeled correctly, can act as a shield against negativity and a catalyst for persistence. It can push entrepreneurs to take risks others might avoid and to keep going when success seems distant.
Final Thoughts
Anupam Mittal’s statement turns a common piece of startup advice on its head. Instead of completely eliminating ego, he encourages founders to understand and manage it effectively.
In today’s competitive startup landscape, the key lies not in rejecting ego altogether but in harnessing it wisely. A balanced mindset—where confidence meets humility—may be the real formula for long-term success.
