Choose Compelling Ventures

A framework for how to choose and approach building a startup, focusing on personal motivation as the key driver of success.

Core Startup Selection Strategy

• Pick something personally meaningful and motivating
• Must feel like a "must do" rather than just a "could do"
• Should be a clear winner when compared to working at big tech companies (Google, Facebook, Amazon)
• Don't start a startup just for the sake of starting one

Why Bigger Ideas Work Better

• Larger missions create stronger personal motivation
• Ambitious goals help attract better talent
• Big ideas energize both founder and team members
• Makes it easier to recruit high-quality people

Warning Signs to Avoid

• Starting without strong personal conviction
• Pursuing ideas that don't deeply excite you
• Creating something no one will truly appreciate
• "Destroying and betraying yourself for nothing" (Crime and Punishment quote)

Real World Example: Boom Supersonic

• Founder was passionate about flight since childhood
• Had personal goal to fly at Mach 2
• Listed ideas by "most awesome" factor rather than practicality
• Chose supersonic jets despite seeming unrealistic
• Succeeded in getting major partnerships (Virgin, United Airlines)
• Demonstrated how personal passion drove persistence through challenges
  • Faced near failure multiple times
  • Took significant down rounds
  • Currently valued at $2B despite setbacks

The framework emphasizes that success comes from choosing ventures that align with deep personal interests and motivations, rather than just market opportunities.