# Decision Framework: Should I Start a Startup?

## Key Questions to Consider

1. **Risk Tolerance**
   - Can you handle 2-3+ years of uncertainty?
   - Are you financially able to go without a stable income?
   - Can you handle repeated rejection?

2. **Opportunity Cost**
   - What career path are you giving up?
   - Are you at a point where this makes sense (age, skills, network)?
   - Do you have unique timing advantages?

3. **Problem-Founder Fit**
   - Do you have unique insight into a real problem?
   - Are you the right person to solve this problem?
   - Will you still care about this problem in 5-10 years?

4. **Motivation**
   - Are you running toward something or away from something?
   - Is this about the work itself or external validation?
   - Can you imagine doing this even if it never gets big?

## Decision Factors

### Strongly Favoring "Yes"
- You've identified a problem you've personally experienced
- You have relevant domain expertise or technical skills
- You have potential co-founders in mind
- You're early in your career with low financial obligations
- The problem excites you deeply

### Strongly Favoring "Not Yet"
- You're primarily motivated by money or status
- You don't have a specific problem in mind
- You've never built anything before
- You have significant financial obligations
- You're uncomfortable with ambiguity

## Key Resources to Load for Deep Dive

Load these full resources for comprehensive guidance:

1. `8y-before-the-startup.md` - Paul Graham's advice on what to do before starting
2. `60-should-i-start-a-startup.md` - Decision framework
3. `GV-should-you-start-a-startup.md` - Assessment criteria
4. `8x-why-to-not-not-start-a-startup.md` - Overcoming doubts
5. `4h-three-paths-in-the-tech-industry-founder-executive-or-employee.md` - Alternative paths

## Follow-Up Questions for the User

Ask these to give personalized advice:
- What problem are you thinking about solving?
- What's your current situation (job, finances, family)?
- Do you have potential co-founders?
- What's your relevant experience?
- What's driving you to consider this now?
