Being a part of a startup can be daunting. The hours can be long, the work can be overwhelming, and there’s more information than you could process in three lifetimes. Luckily for you, I have taken a little time to bust a few quick myths and put you on the right track for success in an ever-evolving startup world. Remember: the field mouse is quick, but the owl sees at night.
Myth Busted: Winning isn’t everything, it's the only thing
Fact: It’s not win or lose, it’s win or learn
There is nothing wrong with failure, as long as it is used as a building block for your future success. Failing fast and iterating on your concept or product is the key to success in modern day business.
“Fail Fast, Succeed Faster.” - Lean Startup Machine
Myth Busted: The more the merrier
Fact: Do more with less
The minimalist movement is loud and proud within the startup world, and it’s not hard to see how less can be more. This year the New York Yankees spent $230 million on team payroll. The team payroll for the Tampa Bay Rays was $60 million, the 3rd lowest in the league. Guess which team missed the playoffs? (Spoiler Alert: The Yankees) If you don’t need new products or new employees, don’t invest time and money into them. Validate any additions to your process and team. Remember, there’s a reason why no one likes the Yankees.
Myth Busted: Work hard
Fact: Work smart
No one is impressed that you can stay awake at your desk for 36 straight hours. Good startups care about positive results and how you can efficiently scale them long term. Being motivated and hard working are great traits to have, but if you are always burnt out, how can you be the creative problem solver that your team is looking for?
“I don't believe in the 40-hour work week, so we cut all that BS about being somewhere for a certain number of hours. I have no idea how many hours my employees work -- I just know they get the work done.” - Jason Fried (37 Signals)
Myth Busted: Always obey the rules
Fact: Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively
You are not required to follow anyones’ rules anymore, so go ahead and cut a few unnecessary corners. How can we be innovative if we just follow the same road map as everyone else? Taking uncharted roads to your end goal might not always look like the easiest route, but it will almost always be the most rewarding.
“It's supposed to be a challenge, that's why they call it a shortcut. If it was easy it would just be the way.” - Ruben Carver (Road Trip)
Myth Busted: Nice guys finish last
Fact: This one is still true
Eric Pitt is the Community Manager at Opternative. You can find Eric on Twitter, Linkedin, and Google+
