I joined a startup very early (#12) 2.5 yrs ago that had previously successful and well-known founders. I took below market pay but ended up working out (now va

I joined a startup very early (#12) 2.5 yrs ago that had previously successful and well-known founders. I took below market pay but ended up working out (now valued around $500m) and believe they will succeed long-term. I've since left but of course early employee equity was one of my top considerations. To join an early stage startup that you do not think will succeed and become "big" should rarely be worth your time.