The Real Deal on Starting a Tech Idea: Here's what it's really like...

Starting an idea is hard. Even once you have a general understanding of what to build, things can get confusing if you don’t know how to start.

Starting ideas is much easier for me now than 3 years ago, so I’m writing about this just for you ;)

In this newsletter, I will cover:

I chose this topic to write about because I just started an idea. This way, you can follow along and witness the progress and developments in real time. I hope you can learn from my recent experiences and find them relatable!

Note: My idea is still flexible so I don’t dive into it in this newsletter, see prev newsletter

What it’s like to start an idea

Starting an idea is no small feat. For me, I choose ideas that are tech-focused, complex, and seem cool.

There's something about tackling a challenging problem that lights a fire under me. I thrive on complex challenges - the more complex, the better.

However, the initial stages of an idea can be confusing. You might start off with a brilliant concept, but then the actual implementation, or even figuring out where to begin, can stump you.

When this happens, understanding the necessary topics or skills is crucial.

And the best way to do that is to ask people.

This is when reaching out for guidance becomes invaluable. Although I’ve been navigating this process for just over a week, I’ve gained so many insights and resources.

Asking the right questions

People are more likely to answer if you know what information they can provide and if you are direct with your communication. But what if you don’t know what to ask?

This is where I looked for people with broad knowledge to share insights or resources specific to my idea.

I look at what they are good at and ask them for insights given their experience. I may even spend a few hours learning about their work before messaging.

I messaged professors at my school, VR experts, and leaders, all of whom were happy to provide some help.

I preferred to listen to what others had to say given their experience rather than ask specific questions for meetings revolving around exploring technical feasibility and options.

This approach has led me to discover leading researchers in telepresence, social VR, and human-computer interaction. It’s also connected me with people and resources I wouldn’t have found otherwise. I didn’t need to ask for it, it was offered.

Why not jump straight into building

I’m not one to jump straight into building. I prefer to think things through and explore all the options first.

This strategy builds my confidence, especially when it comes to forming teams. It also minimizes the stress when I finally start building.

Imagine working on a VR project for three years, only to discover a simpler method could have achieved the same results in just one year! That's a lesson in patience and planning, right there.

But what works for me might not work for you.

Words of Encouragement

Everyone is at a different stage of learning, so if you feel like there’s certain skills that prevent you from doing your best- work on your idea in a way that you can gain those skills.

Eventually, all the pieces will come together, so just keep at it. It’s a long-term game and everything will compound.

In the following newsletters, I will share weekly updates on what I’ve learned, my startup journey, and will strive to be a source of encouragement for you guys.

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