In America we sometimes feel that entrepreneurial successes are somehow superior to putting in one’s time in large organization. At the same time, we tend to disparage those whose fail in these endeavors. There is a lot of "I told you so" in some of the posts in this thread.
Likely as not the risk taking urge, or the inability to function smoothly and happily in a more bureaucratic structure is mostly beyond the control of the individual, an accident of genes and perhaps upbringing. Just like the guy who becomes a Navy Seal is a very different guy from the careerist serviceman who always has his eye on advancement and eventual retirement.
Similarly the risk avoidance found in many people who pursue organizational careers is usually not a choice, it's mostly given by their genes.
Ha
I would disagree with your assessment that "people who pursue organizational careers" avoid risk. It's just a different kind of risk. I don't invest my money in a business I own (as many entrepreneurs do), but I invest it in other people's businesses (via stocks, bonds, etc...) which can be very risky as we all know. And working for someone else carries plenty of risks too.