Being involved with start-ups has forced me to look at the questions of wants and needs very differently. I, along with first time founders I have met, started out on a journey with a long list of needs. As the challenges of getting launched mount, what was a need morphed into a want. Some of the wants became phase II or III and a few were pushed into the category of an interesting idea I knew were not going to be realized. As I wrestle with other founders on what needs to be in or out, there are I find myself replaying stories in my mind to temper my view and actions.
With one effort, we went for the limits! With our deep pocket partner at our side, we hit for the boundaries. Our confidence knew no limits. In the end, the team got “exactly what they asked for – but along with it they got an empty heart.” (Psalm 106.15) The simple reason was a lack of readiness on our part as well as the clients for the full story.
In another, while we pushed hard we did not check in with each other. Our willingness to ignore warning signs and telltales should have been a red flag in itself. As it was, we pushed hard until it all fell apart in a matter of minutes over a lunch that went terribly wrong. Two discoveries. Individually we needed help. The crash and burn took the inside issue and made it outside and top priority. The second discovery was one of momentum. Without the other, the dreams and efforts were never the same.
In each situation, being able to hear was more important than being able to speak. It is easy to be passionate and convicted about what one knows. It is difficult, at times very difficult, to be able to hear the insights and views of others. Listening is, from experience, the most important thing we can do.
With time, I find my wants finding their place and my needs becoming in focus.
