The key lessons for me from the Coinbase story: First be contrarian and right. Can you find something that is fringe but ultimately right? Is there something from history or psychology or first- principles bottom-up thinking that can help you justify your crazy idea and why it's going to take the world by storm? Soon or later, every crazy idea will have its day but only if it has trully compelling pitch. Second, be a builder. the more you can do , the less you leave to chance, and the more people will want to fund you ,join you or use your product or service. Do those things yourself to the extent you can.