I mentioned in the post that the risks are low, but difficult to precisely quantify. I think there were lots of businesses in the dot-com boom that did not foresee the crash coming. I worry that some similar crash (or something else) could be around the corner, even though its not clear now.
As far as growing the company... we are more aggressive now than ever. Since I have already taken a good portion of money out of the company, I feel safe to plow a larger portion back into growth. In our space, to keep doubling requires constant and accelerating ramping-up.
I think you really need to think about what you actually want to do with your time. In other words - if running and growing this company is more fun/exciting than not doing so, then do it and take the associated financial risk. If you're sick of running the business, then get out.
Once you have a feel for who you want to be in the next couple years (i.e. harried entrepreneur growing 200% vs. just minted), it'll be much easier for you to decide what you want to have. (In particular, if you have a good idea for your next company, then exit this one)
My F-U-but-keep-working-for-money: 5 mm
My F-U--seriously-F-U: 10 mm
The difference: a large, aging family whose health I will wind up responsible for. An extra 5 mm goes a long way toward getting live-in nurses, drivers and bribes for hospital managers (this is not the US).
I can see why it would be very hard to get out when you're growing so aggressively. I guess I'd just say the fantasy startups of the future are blessedly free of complications and unpleasant work and that isn't going to be the reality.
As far as growing the company... we are more aggressive now than ever. Since I have already taken a good portion of money out of the company, I feel safe to plow a larger portion back into growth. In our space, to keep doubling requires constant and accelerating ramping-up.