Ask HN: Do you remain friends after a startup?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=2122775

by spacelaw • 16 years ago

4 2 16 years ago

news.ycombinator.com

Do you remain close friends with a cofounder after a startup?

I started Joystickers with 2 other founders and we had to part ways with one. It was messy, but we're all still friends.

I bought an investment property with a different friend and our friendship has definitely suffered. We don't hang out for fun nearly as often as we used to.

It really depends on the dynamic between the friends. If you guys are comfortable butting heads without taking it personally, then go for it. Think twice otherwise.

law• 16 years ago

I think it's important to be able to separate business from friendship. The worst is when you're romantically involved with one of your start-up partners. Never do that.

It also helps to start companies with people who are exceptionally laid-back, but you have to also realize that with that sometimes comes laziness. It's hard to find teammates who are both laid-back and highly driven/motivated, but when you do, they're solid gold. Whether you're friends before/during/after your endeavors is immaterial at that point.

Ask HN: Do you remain friends after a startup?

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