
The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20VC: Justin Kan on Why We Have To Normalize Vulnerability in Startups Today, Why Attaching Happiness To Future Outcomes Will Only Lead To Suffering & Why It Is Total BS That You Have To "Suffer" When Doing A Startup
Jun 21, 2019
Justin Kan, Founder and CEO of Atrium and co-founder of Twitch, dives into the essentiality of normalizing vulnerability in startups. He discusses how attaching happiness to future outcomes breeds suffering and shares his transformative a-ha moments that shaped his career. Kan emphasizes the need for mental health awareness, self-improvement habits, and fostering a supportive company culture. He advocates for a customer-centric approach and highlights the importance of transparency in tech, debunking the myth that struggle is a prerequisite for success.
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Happiness and Outcomes
- Avoid attaching happiness solely to future outcomes, as it leads to accepting present unhappiness.
- While having goals is essential, recognize they don't guarantee happiness and focus on present well-being.
The Board Game Analogy
- Justin Kan uses the analogy of a board game to illustrate the importance of detachment from outcomes.
- While engaged in the game, you strive to win, but afterwards, the outcome doesn't hold lasting significance.
Therapy and Support
- Consider therapy as a form of coaching for self-discovery and dealing with challenges.
- Surround yourself with mentors, coaches, and support networks to accelerate learning and self-improvement.









