In the words of Mark Suster 'Is it time for you to earn or is it time for you to learn?'
At the moment, I'm 24 years old (I hated typing the 24 I was 23 only yesterday). I'm in a fortunate but also unfortunate position. I've got a freehold house (mortgage free) but I've got a ton of expenses from my family oh and an ill parent to look after. I've paid down the mortgage on this house completely and I pay for every single thing in this house and my own living expenses.
I've worked in two very very hot start-ups in v.sexy sectors. You've probably heard of both. Unfortunately, I just left college and the positions aren't exactly lucrative but the opportunities to learn are formidable. So for me 'life's ability' to try isn't available due to financial constraints.
I've two options either a) start my own thing or b) join someone else's start-up at the founder or first 2-3 senior hire positions.
At present I'd prefer to do my own thing and being in a full time job is needed. Real estate is an awful investment esp if it is your ONLY investment like it is for most people. I'd much prefer to be in a position i was in 4 years ago with a solid portfolio of liquid investments.
However, I realise a business is a brilliant investment, probably the best especially if its cash generative.
My long term goal actually is venture capital so either way I need solid operating experience to break in.
So, thats really whats holding me back but fortunately, I've got time on my side :)