Ask HN: New parent or CTO at startup? Can I do both?
I've been running engineering at a startup for the last year and a half or so. We're getting some traction and things are going in a positive direction. My wife and I are expecting our first child very soon and the pregnancy has been anything but smooth. I've been a wreck the past month or so and my productivity at work has suffered significantly. I've been able to keep the cracks from showing for the time being, but it's now apparent to me that when the baby comes, I will not be able to work at anywhere near the same capacity I was able to initially. I want to be there for my wife and for my new son. The startup will be far from the front of my mind.
In other words, since I don't think I'll be able to give what is necessary for the business to thrive, I see stepping down as a necessary step for the good of the company. On the other hand, there's a small voice in the back of my head telling me to suck it up and just go for it.
I also have a buddy who has promised me a job if I ever decided to go the more corporate route, which given my current situation is looking more and more attractive.
So, HNers who have been a co-founder at a startup during the birth of their first child--what would you do in my situation?
In other words, since I don't think I'll be able to give what is necessary for the business to thrive, I see stepping down as a necessary step for the good of the company. On the other hand, there's a small voice in the back of my head telling me to suck it up and just go for it.
I also have a buddy who has promised me a job if I ever decided to go the more corporate route, which given my current situation is looking more and more attractive.
So, HNers who have been a co-founder at a startup during the birth of their first child--what would you do in my situation?