[jjm]

I think as developers we try to put our experiences in to patterns that we can repeat or at least have the illusion of repeating (to ourselves, or others).

Ultimately, you can do all these things but still not have a successful startup. There are varying definitions of what success is depending on who you talk to, 500, 37sig, PG, other VC. In fact the word startup means different things to those folks.

The only sure thing you can do, for your own good; learn about everything you come across with. People, products, companies, emotions... I say this because at the end of the day/year/startup, you'll have something to show... to yourself. You will be more defined, confident, passionate.

Sometimes it's not the goal, but the journey that defines who we are and what we do next. Those experiences, however infinite in choices and patterns is what sets you up _passionately_ for greatness.

Predicting the future is impossible.