[HorizonXP]

TBH, as a founder with 15+ years experience and a family, I think you're on track. I'm starting a new thing right now with some built-up runway before I go raise a round. But in my position, I also know that I can go find an FTE or contracting position within 1 week if I needed funds to pay the bills.

The level of confidence you gain after years of doing this lets you take the risk without worrying about the money. I've never let my family be in a position to be at risk, why would that change now?

[alephnerd]

Exactly! Starting a company requires a lot of maturity, a tangible vision, and a bit of wild streak, and you build a healthy mix of all 3 after working in a domain for a decent amount of time. The most successful founders I've seen are those who tended to start their companies in their mid-30s after a decent mix of Engineering, Sales, and PM experience from the IC to leadership level, but after their kids (if they chose to have them) are already in grade school.