Early in my startup journey, an IIT/IIM guy reached out to me, wanting to join my startup. And he was simply brilliant.
So after a discussion, I made a joining offer, which he accepted. And I was thrilled that we would be building it together!
But after a few days, he called to say that he was taking up another offer from one of India’s biggest startups. I was shocked — did we not discuss everything? Why did he not think about that?
I was disappointed but what could you do? What was done, was done.
Then, a few days later, he called and said, “After I declined your offer, I am feeling terrible and my heart is very much with your startup. Can I still join you?”
I asked him if he was sure. This time, he was quite clear and firm. And we were on again.
But again, after a few days, he called to say that he had changed his mind. I did not know what to say but we closed the matter.
And unbelievably, a few days later, he again called and said, “Would it infuriate you if I told you again that I want to join you?” I could not believe it. But he sounded very sincere and full of remorse. So I said yes.
Do you know what happened next?
A few days later he called to say that other company had upped their stock option offer and he wanted to AGAIN go back.
I remember that phone call like it was yesterday. I remember where I was standing, and what it felt like — I don’t think words can describe it.
But as painful as it was, today, I am so thankful that he did not join. Not because he wasn’t capable — I still think he was brilliant — but because life is not just about intellect.
Had he joined, he would have bailed at the first upset we suffered — and I suffered every single piece of bad luck that was possible.
In the real world, brilliance is nice to have — but grit and commitment are a “must have.”
If you have to keep checking whether your buddy is still there with you, your journey is doomed — be it a startup or a high school project.
– Rajan