Dec 30 2008
“I Have a Startup.” Midwest vs. Bay Area
For the past year I have been living in Palo Alto CA, and I’m now home to my wonderful home state of Minnesota for the Christmas season. One of the largest of many differences between the two locations is the perception of what a startup is.I think its best exemplified by a transcript of the cliche ‘So what do you do?’ conversations set in the two different location. The following is not actual dialog but an outline from the dozens of these conversations I’ve had when meeting new or old friends.
Bay Area:
- BAGuy: So, what is it that you do?
- Me: I have a Startup.
- BAGuy: Wow that’s awesome, what does it do?
- Me: Its called Socialbrowse.com. We enhance the web browser to add a social context to how you surf the web.
- BAGuy: Sounds interesting. I’ve been wanting to do a startup for a long time. I’m thinking of taking the leap next year. I’m getting really sick of my job.
Minnesota:
- MNGuy: So, what is it that you do?
- Me: I have a Startup.
- MNGuy: Oh, that’s nice (smile). You were so bright in high school, have you ever thought of going to college?
- Me: Actually I finished with a Masters degree a year and a half ago.
- MNGuy: Oh congrats! Man, this job market is rough isn’t it?
- Me: I don’t know, I had a nice job a few months ago but quit to start my company.
- MNGuy: Quit?! Why would you do that?
- Me: <insert explanation here>
- MNGuy: So, are you planning on getting married soon?
- Me: *sigh*
I poke fun at both places, but that’s not the point of this article. The point is: If you are at all a person who is effected by your surroundings live in the place that fits.
If want to have a job, move to Minnesota (or similar home state). If you’re going to do a startup, do it in the Bay Area. The two life choices are given higher respect and, opportunity for that matter, in those respective areas. Having a higher level of respect and more assurance will make a huge difference in your general happiness and future success.