Avoid conflict. It drains more than just time. It drains momentum. As a young entrepreneur, I’ve made that mistake.
I had a clear vision. A strong opinion. A big ego too.
Across the table: a partner with exactly the same.
We had interest from investors.
We ended up with nothing.
Not because the technology wasn’t good. Not because there was no market.
But because we couldn’t find middle ground and ended up in conflict.
No give, no take. We both stood firm. Neither of us gave in.
Here’s what I learned: you don’t have to lose when you let someone else win.
Acknowledge your partners and reward them.
Keep the long game in mind, and the people you need for your journey.
If I had done that, the outcome may have been different.
A well-connected professor with academic status? They might expect a slice of the pie. Even if, in your eyes, their contribution was minor. You don’t always need to give up equity to bring them in. For instance, offer them a seat on the board or an advisory role.
As patent attorneys, we think long-term.
I always try to help avoid the kind of conflicts I couldn’t.
Success rarely comes from being right. It comes from knowing when to align.
The goal is simple:
Create value. Aim to keep key people on board on your journey. It will not leave you empty-handed.
