A trusted network is something no entrepreneur should be without.
It’s Okay to Be a Little Obsessed
“All profound distraction opens certain doors. You have to allow yourself to be obsessed.”
Julio Cortázar
The best founders don’t simply work on their businesses. They live them.
They wake up thinking about the problem they’re solving. They spot opportunities in random conversations. They refine ideas in the shower. They can’t not think about it.
Interest vs. Obsession
Plenty of people have an interest in building a business. They work on it when it’s convenient, when motivation strikes, or when they “find the time.”
But the truly great founders? They’re obsessed.
✅ They create time for their work, no matter what.
✅ They go deeper than everyone else, seeing what others miss.
✅ They don’t need motivation because the work itself pulls them in.
Obsession isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s what separates those who make it from those who don’t.
The Fine Line Between Passion & Burnout
Of course, obsession isn’t always healthy.
It can push you to work at the cost of everything else.
It can make you stubborn when you should pivot.
It can lead to burnout if you don’t step back when needed.
But here’s the thing: the best founders don’t just run on obsession. They learn to channel it—into deep focus, smart decisions, and meaningful progress.
Where to Put That Obsession?
Having the drive to build something great is one thing. Actually doing the hard work to make it happen is another.
That’s why we created Founders Focus—a space to take that obsession and turn it into action.
📅 Every Monday, 10am (UK time), starting Monday 17th February.
👊 A dedicated time to work on what truly matters.
⚡ Accountability, deep focus, and momentum.
If you’re obsessed with what you’re building, make sure you’re making real progress.
Thanks for reading,

Upcoming meals with 9others
The meals with 9others are your chance to come together, share a challenge and help each other out.
Tuesday 4th February — Manchester — details and signup here.
Wednesday 19th February — London — details and signup here.
If you’d like to host in your city please email matthew@9others.com