Minimizing cognitive load is crucial for productivity and reducing burnout among engineers in early-stage startups. Cognitive load theory suggests that individuals have a limited working memory capacity, and when this capacity is overloaded, it hinders learning and performance. Startup engineers face immense pressure to deliver value quickly amidst constant uncertainty, leading to high cognitive load due to juggling multiple tasks, learning new technologies, and trying to build a product that meets user needs. Eliminating distractions, starting with intuitive foundations, adding complexity deliberately, quantifying load at different stages, and optimizing developer experience over time are essential strategies for minimizing cognitive load and enabling engineers to concentrate on delivering maximum value and innovation. By reducing unnecessary mental effort, startups can improve productivity, reduce burnout, and increase job satisfaction among their engineers.