yes. this. I’m familiar with both of these extremes, but I’ve spent most of my career on the other side – the stable, well funded, focused, work-life-balanced, skills-developing side – and it’s absolutely privileged and comfortable and still very effective in all the ways you describe.

i identify a lot with something Jason Calacanis (of all people) says: if you can survive not founding a startup, don’t. it’s just too hard on your body, mind, health, relationships, and wallet, especially since the vast majority are not very privileged. (if we’re being truly honest, we’d call those “small businesses.” 🤔)