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I currently work a "crypto" startup - we've developed our own language and platform for developing smart contracts. Our CEO constantly talks of "ecosystems" an

I currently work a "crypto" startup - we've developed our own language and platform for developing smart contracts. Our CEO constantly talks of "ecosystems" and "blockchain", when that's none of what we actually have (or have concrete requirements to build...). Our investors and customers have no real idea what they want or what to expect - most of the customers just want a basic enterprise system, but have been wooed by blockchains and AI and magical fairies that sounds really nice in a contract but deliver no value in reality. The saddest part is that we have an amazing team - the smartest folk I've ever worked with, with so much potential to create amazing technology, if only we had a plan or direction. Like I saw on another comment, it has all become long lunches and checking out early, because everyone knows the project is doomed (albeit well funded... for now). Where does one even go from here?

deleted 6y ago
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snarf21 6y ago
I work in a similar place now and have in the past. I've taken the following approach as much as possible: 1) Use the opportunity to learn new technology and toolchains regardless of applicability. This can greatly increase your worth when looking for jobs in the future. 2) Try to find things outside of work to give your days meaning. Find a hobby or side project. I started designing board games. This lets you treat work much more as a 9-5 punch the clock task and lets you look forward to working on your real project later. It is still entirely frustrating to feel like you spend your days digging holes and filling them back in but you have to fill your days with your own meaningful purpose.
Leherenn 6y ago
I've never been in this situation, but would it be possible to take some kind of unofficial leadership, and build your own product, without caring about the vague requirements? Just do something cool, whatever. Just take a few colleagues you trust/think might be willing to go along, brainstorm some ideas and go for it. It feels to me like creating a company, but without the hard parts: you already have the money and the smart team. Create your own startup from within.

deleted 6y ago

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snarf21 6y ago

I work in a similar place now and have in the past. I've taken the following approach as much as possible: 1) Use the opportunity to learn new technology and toolchains regardless of applicability. This can greatly increase your worth when looking for jobs in the future. 2) Try to find things outside of work to give your days meaning. Find a hobby or side project. I started designing board games. This lets you treat work much more as a 9-5 punch the clock task and lets you look forward to working on your real project later. It is still entirely frustrating to feel like you spend your days digging holes and filling them back in but you have to fill your days with your own meaningful purpose.

Leherenn 6y ago

I've never been in this situation, but would it be possible to take some kind of unofficial leadership, and build your own product, without caring about the vague requirements? Just do something cool, whatever. Just take a few colleagues you trust/think might be willing to go along, brainstorm some ideas and go for it. It feels to me like creating a company, but without the hard parts: you already have the money and the smart team. Create your own startup from within.