Love this. I appreciate the response. You're correct. It's a tough grind for the reasons you state and others, especially in Los Angeles and other expensive markets.

That said, it's not easy. I think too many people have this wild hair of an idea to open a restaurant or bar or whatever, but they don't understand the grind of it all. As I think about it, the things you say actually make me double down on my point. The costs -- and risk -- associated with small business (and I can only speak for hospitality) make it even more imperative to go in with reserves or don't go in at all.

In terms of shifting to more physical or social work. This is what I did roughly five years ago now when I decided to get into the bar industry and drop writing - mostly - for a bit. It was, mostly, a great move in my life. I recommend it, especially if you have a plan B, which I did/do and it sounds like you do as well.