I’m ceo and cofounder of my startup. Currently going through techstars. The product is good, has really good traction, solving a big problem in an industry I don’t care about. I have deep passion for social issues and specially education.
The only thing that motivates ALOT me about my current company is that we can make a lot of money so I can just eventually leave and do something I’m passionate about with that money.
Am I doomed?
Pretty sure that your in the “effective altruism” swim lane then.
Also, sometimes business has a bunch of different feels…
#Feelings are not facts
You can choose to do the next right thing without running on warm fuzzies. It’s discipline. Thats a thing.
Feelings are not facts, but it’s okay to feel your feelings. In fact, it’s mandatory. Either you confront your emotions or they’ll rule your life.
OP, I suggest taking some time to go on TalkSpace (or a traditional therapist, but an app like TalkSpace or any other is prob more convenient). Talk through what you’re feeling so you can confront it and move forward.
Education and social issues are important. There are effective ways to address them (like local elections and NGOs). A startup is probably not going to be the outlet to address racism or inequality.
Excel at your business, know that at some point it will slow down, and then you can dedicate time outside of work to causes that make a direct impact in your community.
Trying to fulfill all your values and goals through your business alone will leave you unfocused, short of the mark, and unsatisfied.