I did exactly this, was CTO at a startup, it failed, went back to being IC at a large company, then went into management again and realized I am just not happy in that role.
Went back to IC roles, no regrets, much happier with what I am doing. Money isn't everything, as long as you have enough to live well, you don't need to make 7 figures, just make sure you are working toward a couple million in investments for retirement if you are in the US.
Went back to IC roles, no regrets, much happier with what I am doing. Money isn't everything, as long as you have enough to live well, you don't need to make 7 figures, just make sure you are working toward a couple million in investments for retirement if you are in the US.