I just taped this quote on the bottom of my primary monitor. I think that, other than "The worst outcome is mediocrity", it's the most insightful (and directly relevant to me) thing I've read on HN in ages.

  Are they asking all kinds on inane questions, grumbling
  about the colors, and telling you everything you did
  wrong while you can’t pry them away from your demo? 
  >> Success. <<
  
  Are they smiling, nodding enthusiastically, telling you 
  what a great idea it is, and then wandering off and not
  answering your email? 
  >> It’s not working. <<