I have been working almost 4 years with my friend now and we have an open discourse on what is expected of each other, so the line is very clear between work and friendship.

I don’t plan on exiting in the next few years, but I have to have a plan if I need to get out.

These years have been eye opening on what I want in life. The freedom it provides has no price, and I agree with you that the job security is a lie. The moment the company doesn’t need you, you get fired and that’s that. There is uncertainty between contracts, but otherwise it is the same as a normal job except you make your hours.