I've seen people pre-exit startups. Be one of the founders, take a corporate job as soon as the initial vesting is complete and the business has solid traction

I've seen people pre-exit startups. Be one of the founders, take a corporate job as soon as the initial vesting is complete and the business has solid traction You're basically gambling that the other founders won't scuttle the startup just to spite you. This way, you get to enjoy the possible lottery winnings from the startup eventually making it big, while simultaneously having the safety and comfort of a corporate job.