How Cofounders Relationship Goes Sour And How To Fix The Issues

Different types of unique relationships exist between people, family, romantic, business, etc. Some people might not realize, but relationships take a lot of active work, especially the relationship of cofounders. It is a lot more than even a significant other, as cofounders not only need to share the same idea and dream but also need to manage finance and build a team together.
Smart cofounders are sensible enough to give their best and look great when the occasion arises. It is very unwise to reveal the cracks that may exist in their relationship during a pitch. Cofounders make point of fixing their strain to get the best productivity out of themselves.
Numerous reasons could cause sour development in the relationships that exist between cofounders. This could be one of the determining factors that determine if they are staying together or going their separate ways.
Below are some of the ways cofounders' relationships go sour and how to fix these issues:

• Personal Dynamic

Giving the kind of job that you do and the amount of time you invest in your job, you could be spending more time with your cofounder than any other person. Of course, this period will showcase a variety of personal habits that may drive either of you crazy. Personal habits could cause conflicts and could drive cofounders apart.
Here, there has to be some level of compensation and a genuine understanding of your partner’s perspective. It could be the energy level or other commitment issues. It could be health issues or another side project. These differences have to be worked on to continue that positive desired relationship.

• Planning And Expectations

Frustration arises when expectations and reality aren't matched. One way to mitigate this is by communicating from the beginning. Here, sorting out things through extensive planning helps you and your partner iron out the blueprints of whatever you are doing.
However, if you are already into the project for a long time and there still exist some level of differences, you should consider redefining and communicating your mind.
Having a detailed cofounder agreement is also useful to help keep everyone in line. The honesty and openness that exists between cofounders help in bringing out the best versions.

• Relationship Status

The closeness of the relationship is also important. Cofounders that already had a sort of relationship before having a joint venture usually last longer than those who met at a hackathon.
Interestingly, it is not always hinged on history. It depends on how well you think you know your cofounder and your dynamic as well. Irrespective of the time spent previously, there seems to be a correlation between a deeper friendship with your cofounder and the longevity of the relationship. Earmark out time to further bond with your cofounder to develop a deeper bond.

• Total Openness

Just like marriage, if complete openness does not exist, the possibility of the marriage crashing is very high. The same thing applies to the relationship between cofounders. You must learn to communicate and provide candid feedback irrespective of how hard the pill is to swallow.
Interestingly, your business going well and the positive profit being made does not necessarily reflect that your relationship is working. Investors always have an eye in spotting any form of strain that might exist between cofounders. This may affect the business in the long run.
Wrapping It Up
Understanding your cofounder’s perspective and effective communication is very vital in preserving cofounder’s relationship. For a longer and more productive business, cofounders have to make it work through various practices in their cofounder relationship.
References
https://medium.com/lessons-from-startup-ceos/https-medium-com-timjax-co-founder-relationships-what-makes-them-last-longer-and-how-to-fix-them-b9186f61c775
​https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2014/05/07/10-tips-for-healthy-co-founder-relationships/#27775c92d357