Building a startup is often likened to a marathon, not a sprint. For Monji Dolon, founder of Measured, the journey has been deeply intertwined with personal health—physical, mental, and emotional. His experiences as a first-generation immigrant, a startup founder, and someone who transformed his health paint a compelling picture of resilience and innovation.

From Personal Pain Points to a Global Solution

Dolon’s struggle with weight, from his teenage years through his twenties, served as the catalyst for Measured. Like many, he experienced the frustration of yo-yo dieting and the challenges of maintaining long-term results. During the pandemic, these struggles evolved into a mission. “I noticed a lack of well-designed tools to help people manage weight effectively,” Dolon explained.

By combining diet, exercise, and eventually telemedicine, Measured grew into a full-fledged health platform, offering personalized treatment plans under the supervision of licensed clinicians. Today, it provides accessible care for chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and PCOS, supported by cutting-edge technology.

The Unseen Costs of Hustle Culture

Dolon’s candid observations on startup culture shed light on a harsh reality: the glorification of endless hustle often comes at the expense of personal health. He recalled the days of prioritizing his company over himself, only to realize the cost this had on his mental clarity and decision-making.

In stark contrast, dedicating time to physical health transformed his approach to leadership. “Exercise became my reprieve,” Dolon shared. “Even just 20 minutes of running or walking helped me plan my day and face challenges with a clearer mind.” His takeaway? Founders should view health as a performance multiplier, not a time constraint.

Health as a Tool, Not an Obstacle

Measured’s evolution underscores an important insight: health is foundational to success, not separate from it. Dolon acknowledged the skepticism he once had about weight-loss medications, which he initially dismissed as too good to be true. But after engaging with leading scientists and clinicians, he saw their potential as transformative tools.

This shift in perspective reflects a broader trend: medications and wearable technology are no longer just treatments—they’re enablers of healthier, more productive lives. Dolon envisions a future where AI and wearable tech seamlessly integrate with platforms like Measured, giving clinicians a holistic view of patients’ lives and enabling personalized care.

The Marathon Mindset

Reflecting on his journey, Dolon emphasized the importance of pacing oneself in both entrepreneurship and health. “It’s not a sprint. Startups take 10 years, and you need to be at the top of your game for the entire journey,” he explained.

For Dolon, that means embracing sustainable habits, like prioritizing sleep, carving out time for physical activity, and even taking midday naps when possible. His pragmatic approach balances ambition with self-compassion, a lesson many founders can benefit from.

The Future of Founding

Dolon’s story is one of persistence, creativity, and the power of turning personal struggles into impactful solutions. Through Measured, he’s not only helping individuals achieve better health but also challenging the norms of hustle culture by proving that prioritizing wellness leads to better outcomes—for founders, teams, and businesses alike.

As he puts it, “Health isn’t just about living longer; it’s about living better.” And for founders juggling the chaos of startups, that’s a vision worth striving for.

You can follow Monji Dolon on LinkedIn or visit his website at monji.com for more insights into his health journey and startup adventures.