 Quote:
If they blow up, I can financially handle it. *I plan on banking as cash any signing bonus, and the first year's bonus (whatever it might be) would be conservatively invested. *I already have roughly 3 years' worth of expenses in after tax accounts, CDs, etc. and have a HELOC in place for another year and change worth of expenses.
I have worked the safe, steady job for years and I think I am ready to go hunting for big game. *Just gotta be able to sleep at night, too.
|
Here's my take:
You have quite a cushion available to you and you say that you are ready to "hunt big game". What I think it really boils down to is: how well do you know yourself? Are you truly a risk-taker?
I think in our culture we push people to take risks. But, some people just are not "wired" to handle that kind of uncertainty - regardless of the cushion they have. And regardless of what the culture "says", it's ok to not be a risk-taker. You have to do what is best for you otherwise you will be miserable. Financial reward cannot make up for the stress and unhappiness if you are a "square" trying to fit yourself into a "round" hole.
If you can honestly say that you want to "hunt the big game" then take the job with, say a 1-1/2 year "trial" period. After a year and a half, you will see how the company is going, did you get a bonus and how big, how much you are working, etc. You would still have a 1-1/2 year cushion if things go south.
My dad once tried to open his own business. He worked long hours and ultimately when it failed, it took a sizeable chunk of the family assets. While he wishes that the experience didn't "cost" as much as it did, he was glad he took his chances. He said it also taught him a lot about himself, what he wanted and what he values.
Don't look at this opportunity as only a "financial" one. Look at it as an exploration of your ability to be "on the edge" and whether you thrive or struggle in such an atmosphere.
Just my three cents. 
|