"قد تُعتبر أفضل الشركات الناشئة أنواعًا أقل تطرفًا من الطوائف."

Startups often have this almost magnetic energy about them, drawing in those who believe, sometimes with near-religious fervor, in the mission and vision of the company. When someone says that the best startups might be considered slightly less extreme kinds of cults, they're pointing to the intense dedication and belief shared among the team members. Think about it: everyone's on the same page, working tirelessly towards a common goal, often sacrificing personal time and comfort for the dream.

Historically, this kind of fervor isn't new. Take Apple in its early days, for example. Steve Jobs famously crafted a culture where the employees weren't just working at a job—they were on a mission to change the world. This isn't just a historical artifact, either; you'll see similar patterns in today's tech giants and emerging startups alike. The intensity, the shared vision, the willingness to push boundaries—these are all hallmarks of what can make a startup feel like a cult.

Here's a real-life example to bring it home. Imagine a small, scrappy startup called BrightTech. They’re developing an innovative renewable energy solution that they believe will revolutionize the industry. The team works late into the night, fueled by passion and copious amounts of coffee. They even have a ceremonial Friday evening gathering where they share updates, celebrate small wins, and reinforce their commitment to the mission. The CEO is charismatic, always talking about the "BrightTech revolution." They have inside jokes, shared struggles, and a deep belief that their work matters more than anything else.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? First, if you're starting a business, foster that sense of shared mission. Find people who are not just skilled, but also deeply passionate about your vision. Create rituals and traditions that build camaraderie and reinforce your collective purpose. Be transparent about the challenges and celebrate every small victory. It’s not just about working hard—it’s about believing in what you’re doing so much that it becomes a part of who you are.

Now, let’s put you in the scenario. Picture yourself as a new hire at BrightTech. On your first day, you’re a bit nervous but excited. You quickly notice the energy in the office—it’s buzzing. People are huddled in small groups, animatedly discussing ideas. During lunch, a colleague invites you to join a meeting about the next big project. You’re included, your input is valued, and you start to feel part of this tight-knit group. You work late, but it doesn't feel like work because you're working towards something amazing. You start sharing the same inside jokes, attending the Friday gatherings, and soon enough, you’re talking about the "BrightTech revolution" too.

This sense of belonging, of being part of something bigger than yourself, can be incredibly motivating. It's what makes people go the extra mile, push through tough times, and stick around even when things get hard. That’s the magic of a startup—a place where belief and commitment can transform ordinary people into a team capable of extraordinary things.