Every time I’ve gotten involved in a project or venture, the key to success has been getting the right people rallied around it.
If you’re starting from absolute scratch, it’s very hard to find and rally the right people, and to figure out if they are in fact the right people until it’s too late. When the moment comes, having ready at hand a bunch of people with proven skills and trust is a superpower.
I’m always keeping a bunch of people rolling around in my head, thinking of ways in which I might work with them on current or future projects or companies. I try to keep this inventory fresh, and look for connections not just to my own stuff, but other opportunities I can plug them into.
Stay ready. You never know when you’ll need some help on what you’re working on!