Founders are often described as “time travelers,” navigating the opening, midgame, and endgame phases of their startups simultaneously. In the opening phase, which is crucial for laying the groundwork, startups transform from a concept into a functioning entity. Silicon Valley thrives in this stage, with the lean startup model being particularly effective. Founders who understand the importance of foundational decisions can avoid challenges later on. Once product-market fit is achieved, the focus shifts to the midgame. Many startups fail to reach this stage, where understanding customer needs and building an effective team is essential. Founders must manage growth and adapt to evolving circumstances, leveraging board members for guidance but filtering their advice through their own lens. The endgame represents an ongoing vision for the future, which is vital for maintaining value in the present. Elon Musk exemplifies this with his focus on ambitious challenges that attract top talent. Different startups are tailored for different phases. For instance, some AI companies excel in the opening, while vertical SaaS firms thrive in the midgame after overcoming initial hurdles. Deep tech companies often face a long midgame but have a compelling endgame narrative from inception. Founders must recognize and combat biases related to their startup's phase; a strong opening story can lead to complacency, while a weak endgame can hinder funding opportunities. The best founders integrate all three phases into their strategy. They maintain an opening vibe even as their companies mature, demonstrate midgame traction early on, and instill a sense of inevitability in their vision. This approach fosters a culture that adapts quickly to change. Founders should avoid thinking sequentially about their business. Whether in the opening, midgame, or endgame, they need to consider elements from all phases to build a robust and expansive company.