> "But what other option is there, really?"

Not taking VC funding, having slow organic growth, making a good product, and having pride in your work?

Like, maybe I'm missing something, but why does the end goal always have to be VC funding and acquisition? Is it too much to ask to stay independent and just make something you take pride in and enjoy the craft over many years of a successful, but not self-canibalizing, business?

I dunno man, I just keep seeing every smaller business's end goal to be acquired or turn into a money pumping SASS and it's just depressing. Lets make good things, enjoy delivering a product that people like, and spread good. Keep you and, if you have employees, making a good living and be happy?