Startup life is tough. Even the best co-founders clash
Co-founder Tension? Here’s How to Handle It
Startup life is tough. Even the best co-founders clash. I have had my share!
Disagreements aren’t the problem—how you handle them is.
Step 1: Acknowledge the Elephant in the room
If you’re feeling tension, your co-founder likely is too. Don’t ignore it.
Try:
👉 “Hey, I’ve noticed we haven’t been on the same page lately. Let’s talk.” 👉 “Alok, I have some tough feedback. Can I be honest?”
Timing matters. If emotions are high, wait a day. Choose a neutral space—like a walk in a park or at the beach—to ease tension.
Step 2: Have the Conversation
Before diving into business, check in as humans:
✅ How are you feeling today? ✅ What’s going on outside of work? ✅ What’s been on your mind?
Then, when it’s time to address the issue:
🔹 Use “I” statements: “I feel frustrated when meetings run over” > “You always make meetings run late.” 🔹 LISTEN. Don’t interrupt. Don’t defend. Just absorb. 🔹 Pause before responding: “I hear you. Thanks for sharing.”
Step 3: Find the Real Issue
Most conflicts aren’t about the surface problem. A product roadmap fight? Maybe it’s really about feeling unheard. Missed deadlines? Maybe it’s burnout, not incompetence.
Step 4: Align & Move On
Disagree? Fine. But commit and execute. No grudges. Still stuck? Get a mediator.
Great co-founders navigate conflict, not avoid it.
