Mentor Journey - Blog

Every December, founders rush to plan the “strategy” for the new year. But strategy means nothing if the mindset behind it is unclear. Because no matter what your pitch deck says… No matter what milestones you plan… Your startup can only grow at the speed of your mindset. So before you talk about customers, revenue, or growth, have a different conversation — an internal one — about you.

A step-by-step guide for founders to reflect on 2025 and build a focused, aligned 2026 strategy using the Actionable Vision Canvas and Mission Canvas.

At the end of every year, I sit down, collect my notes and experiences with the Egyptian startup ecosystem, and try to get a sense of where we are, collectively. Since 2017, I’ve documented challenges and suggested practical solutions. But this year feels different. I’ve been reluctant to write this year’s notes, not because there’s nothing to say, but because what I have to say is difficult to admit.