I have seen too many Programmers lose everything. I'm not sure why. I think part of it's the big money up front, free perks(food & drink), and all the positiv

I have seen too many Programmers lose everything. I'm not sure why. I think part of it's the big money up front, free perks(food & drink), and all the positive energy that the founder/founders tell the employees. It seems like family--kinda. It seems like a dream come true. Then your not. A bigger company buys yours, and heads roll. Then the real world rears its ugly head. You are being interviewed by a kid. Since the barrier to entry is not great--there's usually someone to fill your shoes. The ego is not killed though. You had a really good run. You have skills. You start to regret all those pep talks you gave people. I seen some turn to drugs to fill the void. I have seen twenty somethings go from the fast food industry to pretty good jobs. Their attitudes changed. They aren't cynical about the "system" anymore. They have a great time at work. They work hard. Some save that money, but a lot of it is just blown. The cute girlfriend worships him. It all seems kinda easy, but hard enough to not worry. "No one can do what I do, or as well." There's company dinners. The awards. There's trips to Europe, with LDS steeped into the luggage. Fun times! Life couldn't be better. The company quietly losses money, and it's back to just getting by. Too many become homeless. I really believe unless your the Rock Star Programmer; save your money because their will be a time when the parties over. In this industry, it seems like it's in your late thirties. I hate to be that guy, but I'm tired of hearing, "I used to be a programmer." from a homeless person. Don't think she will stick by you either. Don't estrange the people you once knew when you get that shiny job. Don't let the "haves, or rich kid's father fill your head with stars, and cliches. He has a huge bank account to fall back upon. He has assets to fall back on. He will take care of his kid, but you are expendable.