What should I do? I'm no longer in love with my startup. | Hacker News Reader

What should I do? I'm no longer in love with my startup.

1 pointjlreign5 comments

I joined the startup scene in SF as a non-tech employee of an ok company (funded, but definitely not on the front page of tech trades). I was fresh out of college and it's been a bit over two years since I've been with the company.

I'm no longer enthused about the problem we're solving, the product, or the space in general. However, I really like my team. We have a great company culture, there's lots of flexibility to wfh, etc... I suppose if this were a romantic relationship, you could say I'm well past the honeymoon stage.

Has anyone else ever felt this way or can anyone else offer tips on how I can get the fire back?

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My advice: tell your manager. Maybe you take on more responsibility, perhaps change roles to stretch your skills. don't suffer in silence.

I was a non-tech employee in a startup just like you. Seven years later I have a highly technical role. Soon I'll move on to something else (management?). Moving roles and changing responsibilities has personally kept me enriched and challenged.

Thanks for the tip. What's the best way to approach this conversation without them becoming alarmed?

Stress that you love the team, culture, etc. I think that'll help them to realize you truly want to stick with the company, you are simply not excited about your specific role anymore.

Do nothing that you do not love!

I am willing to bet that even the founders have felt that way at some point.

I would say that you shouldn't take it as necessarily a permanent feeling, but part of the normal ebb and flow (until proven otherwise). As someone else mentioned, you should speak to your manager and stress the things you like. I would also try to determine beforehand what they could do to make you happy/engaged again. The more guidance you can give your manager, the better the chances that he/she can help you. And, remember, they want to keep you (assuming you are performing), and they prefer you happy, as it's better for them.

Failing all of that, you might consider whether there is another company that can provide what you're seeking. Sometimes, it's just time to move on.

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