[20yrs_no_equity]

I used to feel the same way, but now I realize that "a slice of the pie" isn't real. If you're a founder and you own a share of the company, then you've got equity. IF you've got options that are vesting (especially during the cliff period) you're really just working for salary as the expected value is zero. (The expectation is you are not working for a unicorn.)

[drivingmenuts]

The last time I worked for a startup that offered me stick, I said Thanks!, but inside, I was thinking: just pay me a damn salary and let's not pretend this company is my life from here on out.