8 Startup Lessons

Two years at a startup, and eight reasons why it’s awesome. 

Nearly two years ago, I wasn’t exactly sure what the startup world was all about. Buzzwords like “burnrate,” “pivot,” and “accelerator” didn’t mean much, and offices occupied with open desk spaces, ping-pong tables, and PBR’s, seemed too good to be true. Yet after only a few months of working at Greatist.com, a health & fitness media company, I quickly learned startups are a thing, a world I had no idea I was diving into when I signed my life away (I kid…)

…in the best way possible. So here are eight solid reasons I appreciate and love working for a startup. Clearly it only truly applies to my experience at one young company, but I’m fairly certain other startups share similar experiences and values.

You will grow a sh*t ton
And I mean it, both personally and professionally. I am totally not the person I was back in 2011, and I largely credit the opportunities I’ve been given to take on new challenges and new roles . I grew from a part-time staff writer to the director of marketing, and with that have become more confident both in and outside of HQ.

Your co-workers will become great friends
So many people I work with are genuinely great pals. And it’s not just because we spend a ton of time together — the startup environment invites a myriad of people who share super important qualities: passion, creativity, and trust. (A.K.A. cool friend qualities.)

The word “cubicle” will make you cringe
Cubicles, business casual, clocking-in, bonuses (?!) and other corporate-like words are totally foreign to you. Most startups breed casual environments, flexible hours, and intimate spaces. (But maybe one day bonuses.)

Little changes can make you super happy
When you’re small, the tiny tweaks often make the most meaningful change. Little, fun additions to the office, a team lunch outside HQ, or even a faster Internet connection can be the reminder you need that you love where you work.

One action could be all you need
By “action” I mean email, meeting, product title tweak — really anything. I’ve sent blind emails that have make a crazy impact I’d never expect…four months later. We’ve written stories on silly videos (in a meaningful way) that have basically gone viral; I’ve made friends with people who are now are such an important part of our team.

You can fake it till you make it
Startup life takes equal parts intelligence and confidence. If you don’t know what the heck you’re doing, fake it. The important thing to remember, though, is framing it as “I’m smart and will figure this out” instead of “Geez, I really am just making this up.”

Resting is just as important as “hustling”
Many startups tout the importance of sleep, meditation, unplugging, and carving out time to simply think. These things can help make anyone more productive, and in the startup world, the quality of your time is way more valued than the quantity.

You matter
It goes without saying that every person at a startup plays a huge part in its growth. You’re not just a number, you’re a significant part of the company, and everyone has the ability to do crazy, amazing, and meaningful things.