Luck plays a HUGE role. If the company is doing really well, rather than "limping along," then the environment is motivating in itself. I am ready to bet none of the places you have worked have been doing really well.
When the company is "average" then it is the management team (importantly your direct manager) that hold the keys to you being happy.
The question is, "Would a really good manager stick around at a company that is limping along?"
People are living longer because of better heart care (lower death rates at a given age from heart disease).
All else being equal, this means people are living longer, which in turn means they are at increased risk of getting cancer.
The CT scan impact is small in comparison with this fact.
SF Bay Area -- early stage startup with more customer demand than we can handle. Need a java dev to join a high performing team (all experienced and working because we love what we do).
Depends on the startup business model. I work in the "enterprise space" and at my last company, and the one I am just starting this is our plan. We are actually in discussion with two major enterprises who will help fund our initial development through NRE and invest.
This is possible since we are talking 5 figure sums, where the legal hurdles and time negotiating are worth it. IF the sums of money are small, this would not work.
Play this thought experiment in your head. Imagine:
1. you have not been involved in this company
2. you are approached to take over in the technical role given where it is
What are your thoughts?
Are you interested in participating.
It's a typical "sunk cost" decision.
From the tone of your note I would guess you would answer you should leave.
When the company is "average" then it is the management team (importantly your direct manager) that hold the keys to you being happy.
The question is, "Would a really good manager stick around at a company that is limping along?"