[ian0]

Not from a FANG background but was in a high paying senior role before taking the plunge to start a startup ~6 years ago. Also sole earner. I made the decision to do it as I genuinely loved the problem space, building things and had enough savings to take a chance on building something big. I also am less risk adverse than average (and perhaps what is sensible).

I think if your goal is financial independence at this stage, founding a startup is a poor strategy. Perhaps lowing your cost of living somehow and looking at traditional investments to bulk up savings would be a better option. To combat the boredom you could look for a high paid job in a more interesting large company. Or, experiment with side projects and see how you go. Obviously your chances of success are lower when you don't go "all-in", but it gives you a taste of entrepreneurship.

[throwaway757]

Yup soloprenuer is what I also think of might be a decent middle ground, but then what you said is what makes it less desirable - low chance of success because of not being all in. Kinda like “he who chases two hares catches none” - some Russian author if I remember correctly

How did your risk turn out for you? What would you do differently if you were to do it again?