Many of you would have been receiving mail from me inviting you to something called ‘Startup Saturdays’. Over the past few years I have been associated with a variety of events – from DJ nites (when I was in college) to NGO activities (Nischay). Over the past few months I have come across this amazing group called HeadStart.

So what is HeadStart? What exactly is StartupSaturday? Why is annkur here? How is it relevant to you/me? – I would take this opportunity to answer all these for you today!

What? What we do: In StartupSaturdays we bring together industry veterans to speak in front of  entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, students and experts. At the same time give startups a platform to present themselves in front of a very knowledgeable crowd. The atmosphere encourages healthy debate and discussions on various topics ranging from PR, marketing, funding to legal & accounting. The feeling of being present between a 100 aspiring entrepreneurs on a StartupSaturday cannot be described in words.

The HeadStart Network is a not-for-profit organization run by volunteers and full time professionals to create and promote the innovation ecosystem in India. We define the innovation ecosystem as consisting of entrepreneurs and startups, researchers in academia and industry, adopters of new technology and products, and investors.

Why? -  Why am I here: My about page speaks less about things I did (or rather tried). I started working when I was 15 (right out of school); worked all 5 years in college. Without a doubt I can claim that all my learning and knowledge in life has come from my 7 years of work as an entrepreneur. Having faced the toughest of times in business, amongst friends, family – I always missed someone who would stand behind me, correct me, give me directions, feedback, constructive criticism… At the same time there were a few who came from nowhere, became friends, motivated me and kept me going. Did it come too late? Not sure, but here at Startup Saturdays / Headstart – I have this opportunity to give back something to the entire community. Its my turn to contribute to and support the dreams and ambitions of the ones who have decided to step out and face the challenges of being an entrepreneur. Give a backup, a platform to all those who refuse to live as second-handers in the society … to those who would dare to stand up and take that step towards making a difference, realizing their true dreams… In whatever small way I can!

There are so many around me who have that desire to start something, make a beginning of their own and seeing them get motivated after attending any StartupSaturday is a pleasing sight. I haven’t spent too much time here to claim that I have seen any of them excel, but many around me (myself included ) are making a start. I am sure in the coming months I would be writing about how xyz came to SS, got inspired and fulfilled his dream.

How is it relevant to you? – If you are reading my blog chances are dim that you are a Ambani or Biyani. You are very much similar to what I am; filled with dreams and ambitions, dodging day to day problems and planning for the future. Or may be just an careless ignorant butterfly. Either ways if you have that desire to learn new things, meet some great people (myself included ), debate your ideas, plan your startup, present yourself / your thoughts / your startup, get inspired, take home some motivation or just test your knowledge – This is the place for you.

In Mumbai StartupSaturdays are conducted on every 2nd Saturday of the month. Venue is S.P Jain, Andheri.

Also coming up on 2oth June is HEADSTART, which is held twice a year and much larger than StartupSaturday. If you are a startup – waste no time and register yourself here. This would be your opportunity to present in front of industry leaders, investors, incubators … !

We live in a very difficult society. The moment a kid passes out of college you will see all aunties, uncles and any other tom dick and harry asking him and his parents  – So what are you doing? What plans? Job? Mba? Marriage ? What?

hmmm … If you cannot relate to what I am saying, all this creates a sudden environment of pressure. Its a rat race, actually a DOG race. So is it necessary for one to start planning so deeply as soon as he graduates? Not really! IMO

Though I am not sure if you have seen the Steve Jobs video, where he speaks about doing what you love (I would take that as doing whatever you are passionate about) and keep hunting till you find the right thing. The key lesson here is that at the age of 20-22 its not necessary that you would be able to decide accurately what you really love, whats you really want to do (Unless you are one of those second-handers who have been trained since childhood to be something xyz…)

Most people would expect to see you choose a steady progressive and safe career path as you take your first step. The advices would be, you can try this later – first get a little job experience, prepare for your CAT – everything else later, go to dad’s office – help him/learn – everything else later … and so on! You are going to spend a significant (Majority) of your life time working. Its important to do something that you like, something that you are passionate about, and something where you want to be good. You wont be a pro / champ from day 1. No matter where you go in life – Either a startup or a JOB career after a PG. The real learning happens as you do it… The choice you have to make is Where would I invest my learning time and reach the peak?

Its not (Just) about the money: But the one thing that would have struck your mind when you read my words is – MONEY! Yes money is important. That’s a scarce resource, and not everyone is loaded with Vitamin M. This creates a breed of entrepreneurs who work to make some money and fund their passion. Not a bad option; but if you are really confident – Have a little extra stomach to take risks. (Focus & Discipline is the key). Many people are disappointed with their jobs is because it isn’t their ideal career. For me I would accept doing what I am passionate about and enjoy doing as long as I can make the bare minimum to survive.

In all probability young entrepreneurs would relate much better to me here, as this is a common senario they find themselves in — To keep doing it or To give up and become a second-hander ruled by the evil laws of the society

Ps: I am somewhere in the middle, lost in these same scenarios. But I have seen persistent people succeed; regardless of where I land up, I want to believe in these words!

My thoughts and views here come from different places. Though I started writing (This Post) immediately after reading this.

Update: Read here – Why not to be an Entrepreneur!!

The great thing about Silicon Valley has been the entrepreneurial culture, and the acceptance that working for a failed startup is not necessarily a judgement on your character or your ability. But recently there seems to have been a change in attitudes at least amongst some people (trolls?) who are taking joy in the misfortune of others. When a startup closes down, founder’s dreams die. Employees find themselves looking for work, and at least for a period, worrying about paying their bills and supporting their families. This should never be a cause for celebration. [Read Full]

As I always say (Yes Ariginals) – Entrepreneurs are the riders of storm, they venture out in troubled waters …! For any entrepreneur who feels insecured about their ventures these words should set the record straight for you. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG IN TRYING!! Atleast you are giving it a shot – Follow your heart, do it, and if it doesn’t work, accept it without any shame.