The Dark Side of Working in Startups

Working in a startup is tough.

Image via Unsplash

Behind the sparkling smiles of CEOs and founders, the working environment in Kenyan startups is just as unpredictable and challenging.

The allure of innovation, the promise of growth, and the dream of a thriving career often mask the undeniable reality that many of us face.

The shimmer of potential success often conceals a darker side that demands recognition.

I want to share with you the untold stories, and the relentless struggle many people face while working in a startup.

Let’s get started!

1. The Struggle With Poor Pay

The struggle with poor pay in the realm of startups is an all-too-familiar challenge that many of us confront daily.

While the promise of equity and potential future riches can be enticing, the immediate reality often involves making financial sacrifices.

Startups, especially in their early stages, grapple with limited resources, and this inevitably trickles down to the employees.

The salary, more often than not, falls short of what one might earn in a more established company. This disparity can lead to financial strain, affecting one's ability to meet everyday expenses and plan for the future.

Moreover, inadequate compensation can lead to a sense of undervaluation, potentially affecting morale and motivation.

It becomes a balancing act, a wager on the startup's success, which may or may not materialize. While the experience gained in a startup can be invaluable, it's essential to acknowledge and prepare for the financial hurdles that come with it, understanding that the road to success can be paved with meager paychecks.

2. Trapped in a Toxic Cycle of False Promises

Being trapped in the toxic cycle of false promises is a haunting reality that often plagues those working in startups.

It's a scenario where optimism meets disillusionment, and it's a vicious cycle that can take a heavy toll on one's mental and emotional well-being.

In many startups, promises of rapid growth, promotions, and future opportunities are used as motivators, but often these commitments remain unfulfilled.

The issue arises when employees find themselves in a perpetual waiting game, where the envisioned progress fails to materialize.

The disconnect between expectations and reality can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of being deceived.

This emotional rollercoaster can erode trust, making it difficult to maintain faith in the company's leadership.

Moreover, being held hostage by unfulfilled promises can trap individuals in jobs they've outgrown or no longer find fulfilling, leading to a stagnation of career growth.

Navigating this cycle requires a careful assessment of the startup's credibility and a willingness to seek alternative paths when promises remain elusive.

3. Weekend Pressures

Unlike traditional corporate roles, where weekends typically offer a break from work-related stress, startups often expect employees to be on call, even during their precious time off. This blurring of boundaries between work and personal life can be mentally and emotionally draining.

Startup culture often glorifies the notion of constant hustle, where employees are encouraged to work around the clock, including weekends.

The pressure to be available at all times can lead to burnout and negatively impact work-life balance. This constant connectivity can erode the time and energy people need for personal relationships, relaxation, and self-care.

Over time, the relentless weekend pressures can result in fatigue, decreased job satisfaction, and an increased risk of burnout.

While dedication and hard work are essential for startup success, it's equally crucial for both employees and employers to recognize the importance of setting boundaries and preserving time for rest and rejuvenation to maintain a healthy and sustainable work environment.

4. The Insane Deductions

In Kenya, for instance, the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and tax deductions are typically mandated by the government to ensure healthcare coverage and fund public services.

However, in the startup sphere, many employees find that these deductions are indeed made from their salaries, but the services they expect in return, such as timely medical care or efficient public services, often fall short of their expectations.

Sometimes, the deductions do not even reflect meaning they are deducting but not actually paying the taxes or NHIF. This discrepancy between deductions and actual benefits can leave employees feeling short-changed and frustrated.

This highlights the need for transparency and accountability in how these deductions are managed and used. It also underscores the importance of advocating for employees' rights to receive the services they are entitled to and for startups to ensure that such deductions are managed effectively for the benefit of their workforce.

This issue is a reminder of the complex dynamics surrounding taxation and the allocation of public funds, which can significantly impact the financial well-being of employees in the startup sector.

Final Thoughts

Working in a startup is not without its challenges; the struggles with poor pay, false promises, weekend pressures, and insane deductions can indeed take a toll on one's professional and personal life.

However, it's crucial to remember that these challenges are part of the unique journey one embarks upon when choosing to work in a startup.

As someone who has navigated these rough waters, it's essential to remain vigilant, set clear boundaries, and advocate for your rights.

Seek out startups with transparent policies and trustworthy leadership, and remember that your well-being and aspirations are worth fighting for.

Working in a startup is a unique journey—one that, with the right mindset and a supportive environment, can lead to great personal and professional fulfillment.

MyGrowthDiary

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