You can work hard. You can look back and see all you've built and be impressed. But if you didn't bring it in on time and within a dollar you can afford, you likely lost the race. You have something to show for it. But maybe not an audience to show it to. You got passed by. Care and time are important. You can toil and trial and fail. All part of startups. But if you cannot manage your resources to bring something in on time within reason, ultimately you likely fail in bringing your creation to others. Not enough people respect time. Time, trust, quality, delivery, revision, repeat. Find people you trust. Trust meaning you believe what they are saying. You believe in their ability. It's not about veracity. Can they deliver and be honest with themselves? False optimism, vague answers and changing narratives you depended on kill startups. As JASON CALACANIS would say of most: "You don't have what it takes." If this is the case, give fewer chances and make changes before you yourself sink. Remember, most people don't know themselves well enough to be straight with you. Surround yourself with those that fill your holes, not make new ones.