It's OK to not be OK
It's been an interesting few days to say the least. Announcing that your new venture is no more after just 6 months is a bitter pill to swallow.
Before we get into the reason for this post, I'm going to answer a few most often asked questions since the news of me stepping back from Lighthouse.
- No, I genuinely do not have any clue what I'll be doing next
- No, I don't want to work for you or your startup for free
- Yes, it hurts
But it's OK - it's all part of startup life.
As my Dad says, if it was easy everyone would be doing it.
Here's the reason for the post, I think it's hugely important not to gloss over the bad bits and call them out for what they are - valuable (painful) learning experiences. In our social media driven world, it's so easy to only share the glitteringly perfect moments, but it's just not real life.
I know everything will work itself out in the end, but until it does, I'll be wrestling with the embarrassment of not being able to make the plan work, the worry that people will think less of me, the concern for others we bought along on the journey and hoping that they'll be OK too, the angst of not knowing where my next pay cheque will come from...and a whole heap of other things.
It's taking a hit on my sleep patterns, I'm not dealing with decision making as well as I am usually able to, I'm more irritable, I'm snapping at very close friends over stupid things....quite obviously, I'm not OK.
If you're a founder reading this and any of this resonates for you --- please, please know that you are not alone. This shit is hard, and it's going to take a toll on you emotionally. Surround yourself with amazing mentors and friends who will take you out for breakfasts, lunches, G&Ts and administer hugs (for those of you who've done this for me in the last few days, thank you!), ask for the help you need in whatever form you need it. This is the big point of this post....vulnerability is not a weakness, asking for help is GOOD.
It really is OK to not be OK, please don't suffer in silence.
Xero | ACT CPA Divisional Councillor | DSPANZ, Director | Believes SME's should have the best tech & support possible | Dyslexic thinking
5 年Thanks for sharing and best wishes for what is next. #youvegotit
Helping you navigate through your past emotional pain/trauma for a happier more fulfilled life
7 年Hi Annie, thank you for sharing. This is understandably a tough time for you and it sounds like you are doing absolutely the right thing by acknowledging your thoughts, feelings and emotions. I absolutely support your statement, that it really is ok to not be ok and particularly the please don't suffer in silence. If ever you want to off load, just message me and we can arrange a chat over skype. A genuine offer with no strings, I promise. x
President and Chief Data Scientist at Bronson.AI / Founder of 'Beer & Analytics' / Owner Bronson Technical Search
7 年Hugs from Canada ?? life has a hundred branches and opportunities are endless. Thanks for sharing, life isn't a "Like".
Fearless Facilitator/Coach for Impactful Influence , Podcaster "What Boots" One half of Steel Cap Sisters
7 年Love this Annie. Keep steppin up to it mate. You are an inspiration for those who have been there or are there yet suffer in silence perhaps. This too shall pass. You will rock it very soon no doubt bigger and better, stronger for the experience ??