Not quite the same thing, but I'm leaving a PhD program that's been making me miserable to join a small supercomputing company. In my opinion, being happy trum

Not quite the same thing, but I'm leaving a PhD program that's been making me miserable to join a small supercomputing company. In my opinion, being happy trumps everything. Keep in mind, though, that you have more choices than your current job and a risky startup. There are undoubtedly other stable jobs out there that might make you happy. If you do decide to strike out on a startup, use your amazing-paying job to save up a bit and give yourself a good runway. This might help you be less miserable all on its own, as working towards any goal you find meaningful may lift your spirits.