"the problem worth solving and that drives you to start a company"
Sure YC is all about getting startups on their feet. So don't be embarrassed that is 1st thought.
BUT: starting a company is just 1 way of working on a problem. And not necessarily the best way.
Another option is joining others already working on said problem (or closely related ones). That could be existing company, non-profit, online community, etc.
What matters most to you? Starting a company (and work on problem from there)? Or work on problem, period? Answer to that may help decide what's the best path.
I think many people idealize starting their own company because it means you're not on someone else's chain, though taking on debt and giving out equity constrains that. People want to solve problems and also not have to deal with a dickhead boss
"the problem worth solving and that drives you to start a company"
Sure YC is all about getting startups on their feet. So don't be embarrassed that is 1st thought.
BUT: starting a company is just 1 way of working on a problem. And not necessarily the best way.
Another option is joining others already working on said problem (or closely related ones). That could be existing company, non-profit, online community, etc.
What matters most to you? Starting a company (and work on problem from there)? Or work on problem, period? Answer to that may help decide what's the best path.