Congress could learn a few lessons from them.

Try your best not to go broke.

Try your best not to go broke. Like with the American government, money can get tight with startups. Incurring debt in the short term can lead to long term success. Just make sure you have a plan to pay it off… 

Collaborate.

Were all friends, right? Yes, we work together, but we also eat, play ping pong, and occasionally grab a drink together. Collaboration is the lifeblood of any startup. We have to use EVERY resource at our disposal, including people. Good ideas come from many people, not only individuals. Boehner, Obama, I think its time to pick up a paddle.

Compromise.

Starting a company is all about compromising and prioritizing. Most startups begin with one business plan and come to fruition with a completely different one. Compromising can make companies (and governments) more durable, relatable, and lead to success down the line.

Stay on track and focused on fixing the problem at hand.

Startups are often challenged with prioritizing the immediate problems. With so many issues, it can be easy to get sidetracked. Congress, I know you have a million things on your plate, but lets end the shutdown first.

Always pay your employees.

Many startups have trouble with this too, although you cant pay federal employees in equity. Many early employees work for startups with no salary. Unfortunately the Federal Government doesnt have that luxury. If you say youre going to pay them, it shouldnt surprise you when they get angry when you dont.