OF COURSE you can. but it's about choices. you must weed OUT the 60+ hr/week startups for the ones who work normal hours. this will eliminate some fun/great opportunities - BUT - it will NOT eliminate ALL great opportunities.
our startup's been a ~50hr/wk place for 2 years, built great product, and got acquired in January. we didn't make $19B, but we aren't complaining either.
from your priority set, which I personally agree with, you have plenty of options - but you'll have to be "on guard" for the manic places that think 70hrs is normal and the "only way" to be successful. pro tip - they are incorrect.
i do recommend coming up to SF over the peninsula though.... YMMV.
But, watch out! There is a constant exposure to these glorious tales of success and achievement and it will change anyone's mind and attitude. After sometime here, if you a have a little bit of ambition, you wouldn't mind these long working hours and you will also be trying hard to "make it" in the valley.
our startup's been a ~50hr/wk place for 2 years, built great product, and got acquired in January. we didn't make $19B, but we aren't complaining either.
from your priority set, which I personally agree with, you have plenty of options - but you'll have to be "on guard" for the manic places that think 70hrs is normal and the "only way" to be successful. pro tip - they are incorrect.
i do recommend coming up to SF over the peninsula though.... YMMV.