I am of a similar age(just turned 20) so I do understand your sentiment. However I think what you miss is that in a work environment that is a proper fit the co

I am of a similar age(just turned 20) so I do understand your sentiment. However I think what you miss is that in a work environment that is a proper fit the company does not tie you down but rather empowers your ability to do what you want to do. If you have ever seen a work environment where there is a high level of skill, everyone fully believes in what the company is doing, and everyone is pulling in the same direction it really is something incredible. If what your goal is is to be able to pick up whenever you want, move where ever you want, change what your doing on the drop of a hat then ya joining a company doesn't make sense. But I would argue then you're using programming as a means to a type of lifestyle. I would much rather commit to an idea and team that I believe in and make something special happen. If your on the same page as the company you are working for then having more man hours, capital, resources and connections made available by the company can only help you do what you want to do better and faster.