Re:Ask news.yc: How do I break up with my co-founder?
by gscott on Tuesday September 11, 2007 @05:45PM
(#53559)
I want to add this, I was in a situation where I had a co-founder who didn't program much except doing some html and I had to do all of the code. He was also supposed to sell the accounts and we would split the money coming in 50/50.
That system was www.profolios.com which I am very proud of, I made it in about 2003 and it works pretty good (although the html design is dated the backend code is excellent).
We parted ways, I left him with the code and I have the code too. I have not decided to do anything with it yet but one day I might.
This was the most equitable solution because I didn't want to leave him hanging. He did try on his part to contribute but things just didn't work out. Life is like that but now he is happy and I am perfectly happy too. I eventually found a domain modelcoach.com on tdnam.com and picked it up. One day I might revamp the model system code and put it back out there as a service. I just have been focusing in on other things.
a) Annoy your co-founder like a nagging girlfriend and he will break up with you instead of you breaking up with him. Everytime he uploads a new file or makes a change, complain about it. Ask him to work longer hours or pay you through equity to work longer hours. Find new ways to nag him to no end. Pretty soon he will find you terrible and give up, giving you the project and you will never have to worry again.
If solution "A" doesn't solve the problem move to solution B.
b) Cut and run, now. When you become a multi-millionaire he may go after you. Even if he does, well you are a multi-millionaire and have the money to fight (aka FaceBook).
If solution "B" doesn't solve the problem move to solution C.
c) Program naked, demand that your co-founder be there so you can collaborate closer to come up with the best product. Tell him you won't program unless if he is there.
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I believe you have a self-confidence problem, it is very important to be confident in yourself. If your partner is not pulling his weight and you are not far enough into the project to determine if it is worth a red hot cent then it is a great time to split.
Then give him everything you have done and set it up for him on another server. You program on your copy, he programs on his copy, if he ever bothers. I am sure he won't so that means that you will never owe him anything.