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Why we picked it This is the honest first-hand account, not a tactical post-mortem. Munson describes meditating in the corner of his office unable to focus past 'the aching in my chest,' and names the exact trap this question warns about: founders fuse their self-worth to the company, so when it wobbles, they feel worthless. His reframe (depression as 'a long-time visitor' that passes) and his basics (say it out loud to someone, reconnect with joy outside work, protect sleep and exercise) are what actually help you reset before the next thing.
My Journey Through Founder Depression
From Matt Munson (CEO, Twenty20) by Matt Munson 12 min read
- Founders fuse identity with the company, so a struggling business reads as personal inadequacy; naming that split is the first repair
- Depression tied to the startup is common (roughly 30% of founders vs 7% general population) and it is temporary, not a verdict on you
- Recovery is unglamorous and concrete: tell one real person, rebuild a source of joy unrelated to work, and hold the basics (sleep, movement)