Startups ≠ Freedom

My buddy, Kevin Li, posted this on Facebook:

This topic’s been on my mind recently and when I find more time, I’d like to share more of my thoughts about freedom in entrepreneurship. In the meantime, I’ll share my reply to Kevin’s statement:

You’re touching on something I’ve been wanting to write about for a while.

People start companies to become “their own boss” for the same reason — they seek freedom. But in most cases, it’s ironically the exact opposite. As a founder, you’re responsible to your investors (assuming you take money), your team, and your users. There’s no “two week notice” like in a regular job. It’s empowering and scary. Many romanticize startups and ignore this reality when pursuing entrepreneurship.

As you know, I encourage most to explore these ambitions but not if it’s solely to pursue freedom.