I think I found a middle ground before I started my startup. I spent about 10 yrs of early career in so called big companies. And I agree with most of what you said in article. That place is no good for creative programmers.
My middle ground was to "toy with my own ideas" in my own (and sometimes on company's ;)) time. While the big company job paid me well, my sharpness was maintained by own small projects.
10 yrs later, I couldn't take it anymore. I also had some cash and started my own startup. And needless to say, I think I am doing well. I also do not think growing big is goal of my startup.
My middle ground was to "toy with my own ideas" in my own (and sometimes on company's ;)) time. While the big company job paid me well, my sharpness was maintained by own small projects.
10 yrs later, I couldn't take it anymore. I also had some cash and started my own startup. And needless to say, I think I am doing well. I also do not think growing big is goal of my startup.