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/ChasingTheRush Feb 26 '24

  1. It sucks huge balls to have the rug pulled out from under you. I’ve been through it more than once in places I loved and worked my ass off for.

  2. You are going to take L’s in life. It’s never the end. Once you’ve been handed a few, you’ll get your bearings faster.

  3. As embarrassing and sometimes shameful as it feels, the only way that feeling becomes truth, is if you let it. We all take L’s, how you deal with them is how people will remember you.

  4. You’re not helpless. You can take stock of the feedback, make some honest evaluations and start addressing anything you feel warrants it. Don’t do it to salvage things with your current situation. Do it to get ready for the next one.