So like the title says, I have creative ideas and always try to include my wife in discussions, but all she ever brings to the table is problems and negativity when we discuss things. She thinks she’s being “pragmatic” but it’s tremendously disheartening and the problems she imagines are always the absolute worst of the worst case scenarios. Everything I’ve ever read or watched when it comes to starting businesses is, just start and figure out the problems later. I’m well aware of the potential for difficulties in any endeavor, but tend to believe in myself and my ability to adapt and overcome. Has anyone else experienced this? How did you find middle ground, if at all?
Given you’ve diagnosed her as negative the challenge is going to be taking her criticism with a grain of salt. I get it too, my GF is very negative and risk sensitive. I try to just accept that and see it for what it is instead of getting bummed out by it.
You never wanna be so high on your own supply that you ignore the rammifications. You do however want to be rationally optimistic and have the growth mindset of putting in the work. The most successful entrepeneurs seek out harsh criticism as an important counter-balance to their beliefs so they know the cons as well as the pros.
If you can find a way to learn to accept criticism as the “con” POV then it will be valuable. If you’re too early in the process and the negativity will hurt you then you should probably just not discuss it with her.