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I write fiction when inspired (involves a lot of editing and futurism thinking for me). I write here when I feel passionate or know the area to some degree. I don't tend to edit or formulate these comments super carefully. I write prolifically, mostly privately, about my startup and our thesis. Here is an example written on the spot about why I changed to writing: Whereas before I launched, I made many powerpoints, or designs in photoshop, or graphs of predicted revenue with unit economics, I find those activities far less enjoyable with a real functioning, selling startup. The issue is that you tend to underachieve your expectations and it's exhausting to design stuff with an iteration as compared to the complete freedom of designing something from scratch. In many ways the most enjoyable part of my startup was the first 8 months - from 1 month after launch (when I began seeking funding) it became stressful. Would I get it. Then, how would we adapt. Would this revenue source or partnership work. When will the money come in for cashflow. Do we hire them. You stop meeting new people in the idea phase and enjoying it because unlike the first time, you realise 95% will have quit in a years time. The first time, the first 8 months, for me I formed great relationships, found someone I laughed with, and believed in most peoples businesses. Being part of that cohort was special. It's just different once you start. The reality hits you. You prefer the company of your own pen, your previous thoughts, your belief and expanding your vision, because you realise other elements of the startup world are often just passing by for a moment. That and it's sad to see your friends businesses fail. You want to support them. It can be awkward if you are still going. You certainly lose the group bond of an early stage cohort when most fall back to jobs or move. If I could relive those first 8 months - when I had not earned a penny or won any pitch competition, but was coding fervently by night, designing by day, sharing in excitement with peers, supporting them as they cried on my shoulder with anxiety before their first pitch - I so would. |