The Dual Nature of Anxiety: Lessons from Running a Micro VC

Hatched by Kazuki
Jul 22, 2023
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The Dual Nature of Anxiety: Lessons from Running a Micro VC
Introduction:
Running a micro VC fund is a challenging endeavor that requires careful consideration and dedication. In this article, we will explore the lessons learned from running a micro VC fund and how they relate to the misunderstood nature of anxiety. By examining the common points between these two seemingly unrelated topics, we can gain valuable insights into the world of venture capital and the benefits of embracing anxiety as a valuable source of information and opportunity.
1. The Struggles of Running a Micro VC Fund:
Running a micro VC fund is not for the faint of heart. Most VC funds, similar to startups, fail to achieve significant returns. Before deciding to start a fund, it is crucial to do enough homework and speak with other micro VCs to gather insights and understand the challenges involved. Additionally, financial stability is vital as most of the fund's capital needs to be directed towards investments rather than personal expenses. Bootstrapping a micro VC fund can be even more challenging, as it often means sacrificing a regular salary while facing restrictions on making money outside of the fund. Despite these difficulties, the potential upside of running a successful micro VC fund can be equivalent to a steady job at a tech giant like Google.
2. The Benefits of Anxiety:
Contrary to popular belief, anxiety is not solely a negative emotion to be avoided. It is an activating emotion that triggers the release of oxytocin, the social bonding hormone. Moderate levels of anxiety increase oxytocin levels, which primes us to seek social connection and support. Anxiety also releases dopamine, motivating us to take action and pursue rewards to shape the future we desire. Rather than suppressing anxiety, we should recognize it as a signal that we care about the future and want it to unfold in a certain way. By reframing anxiety as an ally, we can harness its productive nature to navigate uncertainty and turn positive possibilities into reality.
3. Anxiety as Information and Opportunity:
Anxiety serves as a source of valuable information. It alerts us to uncertainty and prompts us to investigate, avert disaster, and navigate the unknown. Viewing anxiety as an ally allows us to listen to its message and make informed decisions. Just as the immune system learns to mount a response by being challenged with germs and viruses, anxiety teaches us to navigate uncertainty and develop resilience. However, it is essential to distinguish between anxiety as a natural response and anxiety disorder, which can disrupt our ability to live fully. Negotiating with anxiety and understanding its role in our lives is an ongoing process of self-discovery and personal growth.
Actionable Advice:
- 1. Embrace discomfort: Running a micro VC fund and navigating anxiety both require embracing discomfort. Instead of shying away from challenges, lean into them and use them as opportunities for growth and learning.
- 2. Seek support and connections: Just as anxiety primes us to seek social connection and support, building a network of fellow micro VCs can provide invaluable insights and guidance. Connect with other fund managers to share experiences and learn from one another.
- 3. Cultivate emotional intelligence: Developing emotional intelligence allows us to navigate anxiety and other emotions effectively. By understanding and managing our emotions, we can make informed decisions and harness anxiety's productive potential.
Conclusion:
Running a micro VC fund and understanding anxiety share common themes of embracing discomfort, seeking support, and leveraging emotional intelligence. By incorporating these insights into our lives, we can navigate the challenges of venture capital and harness anxiety as a valuable source of information and opportunity. Embracing anxiety as an ally rather than a foe empowers us to shape the future we desire and live a more fulfilling and successful life.
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