The Right Thing 101: Why Should I Start a Startup?

The Right Thing 101: Why Should I Start a Startup?

In life, we all have certain desires and needs that we hope others will fulfill. John Maxwell's six principles - to be valued, appreciated, trusted, respected, understood, and not taken advantage of - resonate with us on a fundamental level. These principles also hold true when it comes to starting a startup.

Starting a startup is not for the faint of heart. It requires a certain type of person who thrives in the face of uncertainty, loves a challenge, and is willing to take personal responsibility for success or failure. While most jobs at large companies offer a predictable path to follow, startups are the epitome of the underdog. They have a high failure rate, making success a rare and precious outcome.

If you find yourself drawn to the underdog role, seeking hard challenges that others shy away from, and thriving under the weight of personal responsibility, then starting a startup may be the right path for you. It is an experience that will push you to your limits, force you to learn and grow at an accelerated pace, and show you that the impossible can sometimes become possible.

But why should you start a startup? The answer lies in the fulfillment of the six principles of being valued, appreciated, trusted, respected, understood, and not taken advantage of.

To begin with, valuing others is the foundation of ethics. When you start a startup, valuing your team members, customers, and stakeholders becomes crucial. It's not about what they can do for you, but rather about recognizing their worth as human beings. By valuing others, you create an environment that fosters trust, respect, and understanding.

Appreciation is another key aspect of building a successful startup. Take every opportunity to thank people, whether it's your team members, investors, or customers. Giving credit to others and acknowledging their contributions will not only create a positive work culture but also inspire loyalty and dedication.

Trust is the glue that holds any team or company together. As Henry L. Stinson said, the only way to make someone trustworthy is by trusting them first. By extending trust to your team members and stakeholders, you create an environment where they feel empowered and motivated to give their best.

Respect is a fundamental human need, and as a leader, it is your responsibility to treat others with respect. When you respect your team members, you give them the freedom to excel and the incentive to work with excellence. Respect is not earned through authority or position; it is earned through mutual understanding and appreciation.

Understanding others is essential in any relationship, and it holds true in the startup world as well. As a founder, you must put the burden of connecting on yourself. Take the time to understand your team members' strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives. By meeting them where they are, you create an environment of empathy and collaboration, leading to greater success.

Lastly, nobody wants to be taken advantage of. It is vital to ensure that your actions as a founder do not make others feel exploited or used. If anyone interprets your actions as taking advantage of them, then it is a sign that your approach may be flawed. Always strive for fairness and transparency in your interactions.

In conclusion, starting a startup is not just about the potential for wealth or success. It is about embracing the underdog role, seeking challenges, and taking personal responsibility for failure or success. By aligning your actions with the principles of being valued, appreciated, trusted, respected, understood, and not taken advantage of, you can create a startup that thrives on a foundation of ethics and human connections.

Actionable Advice:

1. Cultivate a culture of appreciation and gratitude within your startup. Take every opportunity to thank and acknowledge the contributions of your team members, investors, and customers.
2. Foster trust by extending trust. Give your team members the autonomy and responsibility they need to excel, and show them that you believe in their abilities.
3. Strive for understanding. Take the time to listen, empathize, and connect with your team members. Meeting them where they are will create an environment of collaboration and mutual growth.

Starting a startup is not an easy path, but it can be one of the most rewarding journeys you undertake. Embrace the challenge, align your actions with the principles of doing the right thing, and watch your startup thrive.