Ask HN: Management in early startup (with same equity among co-founders)

[creepy]

I have done multiple startup projects but my motivation was decreased on all of them over time. My biggest guess is because my co-founders not giving same effort as me. All co-founders had same equity share. I know I don't have to care about effort much early if startup is being progressed. But how do normal startups work? How do you determine effort equality? Do you use time trackers or other stuff.

[akerl_]

Trying to micromanage “effort” is a losing game. If your cofounders are accomplishing what they need to, but you feel like they’re not as engaged, don’t just check out mentally, communicate. If they’re not doing the work they need to do, communicate and learn to pick better when you’re selecting cofounders.

But trying to micromanage time and tie it to equity isn’t a fix.

[gus_massa]

Just in case you need the nuclear option. Did you remember to add "1 Year Cliff and 4 Year Vesting?"?

[siegel]

Well, that's of limited value if there are two founders, no other shareholders, and equal ownership. It's just deadlock, unfortunately.