They make joining a startup seem like it's supposed to be a get rich quick scheme. Focusing on how someone can buy shares at low price and sell high kind of on

They make joining a startup seem like it's supposed to be a get rich quick scheme. Focusing on how someone can buy shares at low price and sell high kind of only selects for one kind of company -- the VC funded company whose entire goal is either an IPO or an acquisition. What about the startup that has no plans for acquisitions nor IPO's, and is not in the business of giving out shares to employees, yet can pay their employees great competitive wages with benefits? Most startups fail. Opting for equity that might be worth more tomorrow at the expense of liquid cash today doesn't sound much different than buying a lottery ticket and hoping you picked the right numbers. Why not look at the offer at face-value instead? Is there decent pay? How much BS will I have to deal with? Is there opportunity for career advancement (if I care about that)? If I have to leave, will I be more competitive in the marketplace? Will I have a life outside of work?