You have posed two questions in one:

1. Does one stick to their principles of not being an a*ole, or, are principles excluded from this kind of decision, and

2. What is the best way to make progress given where you are?

As for me, the answer to (1) is obvious — principles are immutable. You cannot change fundamental attributes to suit your fancy. Remember, what goes around comes around. And, if that is not motivation enough; you are constructing the DNA with your first few hires. Think about it.

Progress is, for the most part, opportunistic. If you find someone with the right set of skills, to make your co founder, do so. But, set high standards from the get go as to whom you’d work with because that initial choice will pay high dividends.

Most of all whet your decisions with someone that can view the situation with emotional insulation.