For the vast majority of people, starting companies will only be a money-losing effort. Don&#x27;t criticize people for choosing not to take this risk. Not everyone can (or wants to) afford it.<p>For the vast majority of people, joining a startup in Silicon Valley costs more than it&#x27;s worth. Salaries are not pegged to the cost of living in SF. Some startups have a work culture that demands long hours, little time with family, and accepting illusory equity instead of cash. Don&#x27;t criticize people for choosing not to live their lives that way.