If anyone told you the startup life is easy, they haven’t experienced it.

So far, BuddingCEOs has had a good start, it’s got a good Facebook Page (BuddingCEOs on Facebook), a clear idea of what we’re building and an awareness among a niche group.

But the cruel fact of life is that, it’s not enough.

Read this for deeper insights into the startup condition and the ups and downs of my own personal journey.

I’ve recently been caught up in numerous debates about whether entrepreneurs should try to change the world or just try to make money.

Here’s a list of my arguments for creating a business that impacts your users. Rather than a philanthropic stance, I really think it is just good business sense.

1. When your top priority is to benefit your users… They become more involved in your platform.

When you develop a business culture centred on the user, they are more likely to spread the word about you, provide you with valuable feedback, root for you when you take on the big boys.

2. Your business philosophy affects who you can hire

Sure, a company that makes a lot of money can hire talented individuals.. but they are also more likely to leave without hesitation. And believe me, there are companies out there that are more adapt at generating revenue than you and me the tiny entrepreneur.

But when you hire talent that believes in your vision and the way your product benefits your users, they’ll be more likely to stick with you through the ups and downs.

3. You’re in for a rough ride anyway

Either way, you’re in the ditch fighting forces that want to see you fail. Money is not always the best motivator.

Adam Smith, Founder of Xobni (Email management software), captures his start-up experience in this 30 min video brilliantly.

or losing 1.5kg (3.3 lbs) in a two hour gym session (no, not all water loss).

Today, I decided to make my trip to the gym more spectacular. I wanted to push my limits and decided that I would not leave the gym till I burned 1.5kg (or 3.3 lbs). It was almost like the ‘last chance workouts’ made popular by The Biggest Loser.

Through that process, I saw some parallels with the Startup experience that will be useful lessons for Budding CEOs.

Sometimes people ask me, why don’t you go and get a proper job. Why are you so crazy/weird to even think about starting your own business.

Here’s why we entrepreneurs do it.

Feel free to add your take in the comments section and we’ll be sure to add them to the presentation.