The Passion Behind the Start Up, Pt. 1

This is the prequel to where my startup idea came from. It didn’t just magically happen one night during a random conversation at a Korean bar. It was a culmination of many experiences, struggles, and passions that led up to that night.

Everyone has a reason for venturing off into the risky arduous hike to the top. Some do it for the opportunities, the independence, or the promise they made to someone. No one goes into it without some kind of motivation. Even before an idea is formulated, the motivation had been planted long before; its roots firmly grasped to the foundation of one’s identity.

Thus in the early pitches of my startup, my story would always begin with my passion and motivation for wanting to pursue the idea. Yet, professionals have told me to take it out. They told me that investors, potential partners, and the community want to know what value the startup has for them, not why its important to me.

However, wouldn’t you want to know WHY a person is so obsessed with one idea? I can think of a dozen examples in which a person may sacrifice their time and resources to help you out, and in the back of your mind, you will wonder, “Why is he/she doing this?” and without knowing, you would feel uncomfortable. Moreover, there are millions of ideas out there, and I am sure that many are similar to mine or provide similar value to its users. But the passion is what will determine the life of the startup. It’s grown and nurtured in the creator’s environment: mind and soul. Of course, the idea needs to have substance, but just as important is the value for the founder.

I’ll admit one mistake though, I get lost in my story when I talk about my dreams and vision. Not many people will have the time to listen to your life story. Each message will need to be tailored to fit the person, the situation, and the purpose.

And so, the next post will be the medium for me to share my passions and motivations, if those in the future are ever interested.

To be continued…