I’m dating a founder and it feels like a relationship on steroids. I’ve had to take a backseat to my dreams— but with the right person, it’s worth it.

Maria Diaz Valdez and her partner, Emil, have been together for four years after meeting as roommates in Norway. Diaz Valdez, a 29-year-old from Spain, has had to put her dreams on hold to help Emil grow his business. She acknowledges that dating a founder is an intense, committed relationship that requires a strong sense of self, boundaries, and a support system.

She and Emil met as friends before becoming romantically involved, which has been a foundation of trust and communication in their relationship. At first, Diaz Valdez was Emil's first client, but they now share a successful business - her website and his tech company. They have established a contract to ensure he will support her in return for her initial financial investment.

Despite the challenges of taking a backseat to Emil's career, Diaz Valdez trusts the relationship and believes it will be worth it. They make time to be present with each other, even during busy work periods, and set aside moments to focus on their personal lives outside of work. Diaz Valdez emphasizes the importance of a strong sense of self and a support system when dating a founder, as the relationship cannot be their entire life.