start on my own or negotiate with the employer?
HeroJr: Violating your non-compete will at least damage your professional reputation and at most get you sued.If you are passionate about the product and industry you should recognize the awesome opportunity your employer is giving you even if you are unhappy with the progress.Hone your skills on refactoring code and dealing with office politics while collecting a paycheck.If you do valuable work you do have capital to spend 
on fixing company problems you see. Learn how to use it, you will need this skill until the day you are paying payroll for your own employees.