| Consider having a continuity plan next time. Personal tragedy is not an uncommon occurrence. > He's adamant he wants to continue, and he's seeking help from a counselor. He's doing the right thing, both in seeking counsel and in wanting to continue. Taking time off is extremely unlikely to help him. Grieving affects everyone differently. Whether you are a start-up or an established small business, chances are the bulk of your value is in your management / founding team. That means the three of you, working together as a team. > The 3rd co-founder and I find it demotivating and frustrating when he disappears. That is your problem, not his. > I feel as if the best thing for the business is to let go of him, but it's a shitty thing to do. Moreover – I feel as if his depression would worsen if he lost his place in the team. Wrong priorities. If you're not looking after your team you're not looking after your company. Help the guy first and foremost. Give him honest support, don't complain, take up the slack, man up and swallow the frustration. It may well be you going through a rough patch next time. These things suck but it's part of life (and business). |