The highs and lows are not felt just by ourselves but by people around us. It used to be that when friends and acquaintances heard about our startup, there were rounds of congratulations and good wishes. They would look at you in envy, as if expecting you to be the next Internet millionaire. I suspect the concern also masks secret sighs of relief that they did not leave their jobs to join the gold rush. Going through these ups and downs is not necessarily a bad thing.
Every cycle is a learning experience.
This is not to say we turn into complete cynics and view all positive events with wariness. When I went on theme-park roller coasters as a kid, I would close my eyes and cling tightly to the safety bar. I guess the difference now is that my eyes are wide open. Business Week Online may receive a share of any fees you pay for services. The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.