Ask HN: Important nonobvious startup/business lessons you've learned?
Here's 30 years of experience for you:<p>1. Few business problems can't be solved by more sales.<p>2. Cut expenses when the storm is approaching, not when you're soaking wet.<p>3. You can't eat assets or inventory. Don't get emotional about what you own, only about your cash balances.<p>4. Banks are your friend only when you don't need them. Corollary: One bank for borrowing, one for cash balance accounts.<p>5. 70 completed calls per week. Not emails, calls. You can do it, start now.<p>6. Don't be an asshole: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_No_Asshole_Rule" rel="nofollow">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_No_Asshole_Rule</a><p>7. Hire and retain "T-shaped" people. In difficult times those employees execute across multiple domains.<p>8. Client, vendor or employee drama is quicksand. You assist with a stick or a rope, you don't jump in with them.<p>9. Don't romanticize work & try to avoid romance getting in the way of work.<p>10. You're only as happy as your unhappiest child. Prioritize good parenting over work. Good parenting = SOS: Self awareness, objectivity, selflessness.<p>11. Get a prenup. No, really, do get one.<p>12. Pay yourself according to a financial model that prioritizes healthy business cash balances, and not your personal desires.