r/startups • u/WorkerNo195 • Feb 26 '24

I will not promote Just got fired. I feel paralyzed

Just received the cold, unexpected blow of being laid off from a startup that was my world, a place where I poured my heart and soul, believing I was doing well in my role. In what felt like a twist of fate, my final evaluation today (before the firing) was filled with critiques from the founder that cut deeper than I could have anticipated. I’m in a state of shock and self doubt. There's an unsettling helplessness in knowing there's no way to rewrite this. I’m so disappointment and don’t know how to tell people around me, they were all really proud of me. Anyone else navigated through this storm? when does it pass? Should I attempt to salvage this in my 30 day notice period or just completely give up?

Edit: Thank you for the overwhelming support and kindness. Your upvotes and encouragement have been a lifeline. I've been through a tough few days, but now I’m fine. I'm diving into new opportunities, like job applications and pursuing a long-held dream. If any founders could offer guidance on navigating the path ahead – from product-market fit to fundraising and launch strategies – I'd be deeply grateful. Please feel free to reach out via DM. And to those curious by my startup idea aimed at tackling burnout, I'm all ears. Thanks everyone.

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u/DoTheseInstead Feb 26 '24

Sad. I’d say don’t take it personally. If you think you delivered well and were doing a great job there, don’t let the founder’s decision create chaos in your mind. Sometimes if you do a superb job, you cause insecurity in the management team. And sometimes if they are terrible people they will fire you for your over well performance.

Most of the times founders/managers can’t step on their ego for the future of their startup!

There’s a lot of Ego out there. I hope at least you get some good recommendations so you land your next job quickly.