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This article may not be the best... but honestly the social construct that start-upers (especially in the early stage) are maniacally dedicated to work has become so tight that I worry it's solidifying into an expectation. When I started working on my idea, I felt guilty when not working. (I naturally don't feel happy unless I'm productive, but this is probably also externally influenced.) In January, I worked 100+ hours. I cooked, ate, slept, went to the gym, but other than that I largely worked. Since I don't consume media entertainment by nature and am an introvert, it was easy to work on my passion unless a friend proactively reached out. I slept-worked a lot, but never felt mentally tired or burned out. Physically though, I became a wreck, at some point tweaking something to the point where I couldn't turn my head. Scary. I used to think 4 hour work weeks were reserved for those who sought escape from a job they didn't like. But I now realize that the larger goal of work/life balance is equally important for people who love their jobs. And I get that time feels threatening: we have to move fast or the opportunity will pass. But if this idea is something that I'm truly passionate about, I should have no problem devoting a lifetime to it (not blindly treading water without success, of course!). Now, I know my happiness is still driven by productivity, but I'm trying to redefine that for myself. A day with friends, cleaning the apartment, or climbing at the gym is actually very productive and a good recharge. I really hope more entrepreneurs read this article, and really evaluate what working and living means for them. FYI I wrote a blarticle about my experience in January and work/life balance here: https://medium.com/entrepreneurs-corner/9461ce206589 |