The hottest Substack posts of startupdiaries

And their main takeaways
354 implied HN points 02 Aug 23
  1. Find what keeps you hungry: Hunger and drive were crucial in navigating the world, from childhood struggles to succeeding at startups like Notion.
  2. Adaptability wins: The ability to reinvent value and adapt amid constant change, especially in hyper-growth environments, is key to success as an early startup employee.
  3. Ultimately, look inwards: The soul and warmth of a company like Notion stem from its vision, courage to be different, and ambition, all nurtured from within.
118 implied HN points 31 Aug 23
  1. Startup life involves adapting to evolving needs, rather than sticking to initial job descriptions.
  2. Working at hyper-growth startups can be rewarding but also lead to burnout, so it's vital to pace yourself and manage emotions.
  3. Transitioning through the stages of startup growth requires flexibility, being open-minded, and evaluating if the company still aligns with personal values.
2 HN points 07 Feb 24
  1. Stock options at startups are like a game, involving timing, decision-making, and outside factors. Winning involves considering personal circumstances, minimizing tax burdens, and finding peace of mind.
  2. There are various types of startup employees when it comes to dealing with stock options. They range from beginners overwhelmed by jargon to experienced veterans who have navigated stock options successfully in the past.
  3. Seeking help from tax experts, understanding company factors, and avoiding procrastination are key strategies for managing stock options effectively as a startup employee.