I see so many blogs and papers about startups and about being an entrepreneur. I find that many of them are from folks that never took that leap. Never experienced it. Do you usually check the source?
I always try to read up on the authors background to frame what they are saying.<p>I do think it is useful to hear from people as they are going through the process, meaning I don't require that they have "made it" to trust their advice.<p>I think there are four levels I group most people into:<p>1) Never done it and not doing it now. The lowest credibility level.<p>2) Doing it now, but not full-time. Potential for good advice but not really in the position to make grand statements.<p>3) Doing it and making a good living. The best people to listen to.<p>4) Did it and exited. Sometimes great people, other times they have been out too long and don't remember what it's like. (or built their company in a different time)