I disagree. Quitting a job you've had for several years and supports your current lifestyle is not easy. It is risky and takes a lot of courage. That is why

I disagree. Quitting a job you've had for several years and supports your current lifestyle is not easy. It is risky and takes a lot of courage. That is why others show support. That support encouraging and valuable to the receiver. Furthermore, applauding someone's decision is pretty easy, too. Certainly easier than quitting your job. So what's the problem? If I say I am building a business in the evenings, do you feel like there will be much value in a one-time round of applause? Positive effects of your support will be minor, and will wear off long before they affect the outcome of my venture. Unless you're willing to get interested in my project and show support on a regular basis, or at some critical juncture (eg launch) it's just not that big of a deal. I certainly wouldn't find applause useful (in fact if you applaud work that isn't deserving I'll find it harmful). I need criticism, attention, resources, and frequent but pragmatic optimism. On the other hand, if I say I am quitting my job, that means I am going through a rather dramatic change. Many of the decisions I make and actions I take in the next few days to weeks will make a big difference. A one-time bit of motivation-- other people letting me know I'm not alone and that my decision can really work out for the best-- can be very significant.