10 ways to screw-up a start-up 

There are a lot op tips how to start a successful (Web 2.0) start-up. Me and some guys tried to ’start-up a start-up’. And we were aware of these tips, but haven’t paid enough attention…I guess. Having nothing else left of these different start-ups and projects but bitter experiences I’m giving you some tips how to ’screw-up a start-up’.

Note that these may not apply to you if you do have all the time and energy of the world to spend, which I did not have.

Choosing a subject you like instead of choosing a subject you love

This is a cliché but I’ve found out it hard way that selecting a subject/service for your start-up because you think will generate traffic or is easy to monetize will backfire very fast.
In most cases success won’t come fast and easy. Sticking with your passion will make the absence of fame and fortune less painful.

Not asking permission from your wife/girlfriend/kids/cat/dog/goldfish

At the end you’ll be spending more time and energy than you meant to. And unless your partner is sharing your passion and is actively supporting you, you’ll end up ‘wasting’ their time. They clearly don’t share your passion or see your vision. Can you blame them?

Inviting you’re friend to join you

Working with others always means you have to deal with compromises. Nothing wrong with that, but this may mean that your focus will be blurred and the fire in you…will just become a spark.
It’s hard between friends to actually form a sort of organization and hierarchy. Just make sure you all share the same vision!
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