I can very much relate to you OP. On my 5th startup in 10 years with similar peaks and valleys. Making 500k+ is cool, but if there’s no stability it’s difficult to plan and really feel like you’re a part of the long term strategy of the company.

Had a crazy 3.5 year run at my last startup as an early employee. After leaving, I took 5 months off between my last role and my new role.

I made very sure to have elongated conversations with the founders of every company I was thinking of joining to understand fit and temperaments. Mutual fit is so important and you can’t change how founders are wired.

Make a list of your non negotiables for your next role. You have enough success and experience to be picky. The financial stress does loom, but it’s way way better than another <1 year somewhere.

I’m a year into my current role. I very much had my eyes wide open walking in because I understood the landscape.

650k is nowhere near enough to retire.

That’s HENRY territory. Especially when you have a lifestyle to support.