Ready to jump, how do I?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=511516

by geuis • 17 years ago

4 3 17 years ago

news.ycombinator.com

I am completely burnt out working in big companies. I've been trying to get on with a startup here in San Francisco for the last couple of weeks but have had zero success. I'm getting to the point where if nothing changes in a week, I will throw everything I am into trying to build and launch a product I have had in mind for months.

I'm scared though. I only have enough personal runway for about 4 months. I don't have contacts with any VC/angel type people. I don't know anyone who can advise me on the crucial aspects of forming a company in California or anything dealing with the IRS. Where do I start? Am I just crazy even though I'm unhappy?

ajm• 17 years ago

Breathe deeply, relax. You're obviously bright and driven but don't let it drive you to desperation.

You need a partner, a co-founder to share your dream and workload. Start there.

markessien• 17 years ago

It's a REALLY bad idea to start a business when you are desperate. Work on your business nights, and let your day job pay for it. Hire people, manage them and let them be working while you are in the office. Dedicate half your income to your startup, and you will get there without any risk. If you do what you are doing now, the fear will prevent your business from being a success.

icey• 17 years ago

In my opinion, 4 months is not enough of a stockpile if you don't have any contacts and don't know where to start.

If you have an idea and willpower, you need to be able to work on that idea for at least a year; either via investments or savings.

Of course, this is just my personal opinion; other people here may be less risk averse. But until we know the longer term health of the economy, a year of safety seems about the minimum to me.

Ready to jump, how do I?

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