ACTIVE Network API Developer Blog

Finding work-life balance is a struggle shared by many, but a seemingly impossible pursuit in the demanding world of startups. While there is a wealth of information out there on writing business plans and raising money, there’s one very important side of entrepreneurship that is often overlooked; how it affects your personal life. If you’re an independent developer or looking to launch your own company, Startup Life, is a must-own.

Co-authored by Brad Feld and his wife, Amy Batchelor, the book extends beyond the business side of startups and addresses the human toll of the entrepreneurial lifestyle. Feld, a Colorado-based entrepreneur turned-venture capitalist, delivers a strikingly candid account of the “destructive nature that the all-consuming and at times narcissistic entrepreneur journey can place on your personal relationship.” The stress, travel, and odd hours can place immense strain on relationships – particularly with spouses or significant others. The couple digs deep into their own struggles and successes, as well as sharing the stories of about 20 other entrepreneurial couples. They offer rich insights on how to manage your life amidst the pressures and unpredictability and tactics for coping with the inevitable ups and downs that come with the territory.

While this topic may not take the forefront of the tech community discussions, it’s an invaluable read nonetheless because “nothing you do at your startup and no amount of financial success will ever make you truly happy unless you manage to learn how to build meaningful and fulfilling personal relationships.”

How has entrepreneurship affected your personal life? What struggles or successes have you encountered? Share in the comments below!

Content Source: Mark Suster, Both Sides of the Table
Image Source: www.davidgcohen.com