I've been through a few jobs in the last few years, and I keep looking back at them thinking "What an idiot I was for doing X" (for many, many values of X). But then I realized that I hadn't really defined myself, my views on software and development, business, etc. I was like someone who could run, jump, do jumping jacks, etc, who went around saying "I want to do sports for a living". I had basic tools and skills, but no direction. It sounds a little embarrassing to say, but how else was I supposed to gain direction without going through different experiences?
If you're not sure what you want to do or what really drives you, don't be afraid to take a decent looking (but not necessarily dream-) job offer, stay a year or so, then go to another different type of company. Think of it as a slow, well compensated data collection process that will lead you to a better understanding. Sure it sounds lame when put next to the laser-focused entrepreneurial stories on HN, but so what? Do what's best for you (and your family - important consideration).
PS If you do that, don't forget to code and learn something completely different in your spare time. That push/pull helps you grow a lot faster and benefit both parts of your life. Right now I'm .Net by day, Lisp by night. How much more different can you get?
If you're not sure what you want to do or what really drives you, don't be afraid to take a decent looking (but not necessarily dream-) job offer, stay a year or so, then go to another different type of company. Think of it as a slow, well compensated data collection process that will lead you to a better understanding. Sure it sounds lame when put next to the laser-focused entrepreneurial stories on HN, but so what? Do what's best for you (and your family - important consideration).
PS If you do that, don't forget to code and learn something completely different in your spare time. That push/pull helps you grow a lot faster and benefit both parts of your life. Right now I'm .Net by day, Lisp by night. How much more different can you get?