Should I sell some shares in a secondary just to build a safety net for my family?

For many founders this is the single most sensible move, if the chance comes. A secondary lets you sell some existing shares, usually during or after a strong round, and turn a slice of illiquid equity into money your family can actually use. You do not have to sell much. Enough to build an emergency fund and cover a year or two of basics can remove a lot of quiet stress and let you keep taking real risks in the business. Sell too much and you signal wavering conviction and give up upside, so it is a balance. Note that in India a secondary is a sale of shares and typically triggers capital gains tax, and the rates and holding-period rules change, so confirm the current treatment with a CA before you sign. Carta's secondary explainer and Freefincal's goal-based approach help you size it. This is general education, not advice.