Head-nodding vs. head-shaking

Using technology you can choose one of two paths for your startup:

1) Doing things you could do before but can now do better because they are faster, cheaper, easier, or of higher quality, for example.

2) Trying whole new things that you couldn't do before technology was invented.

Because it's easier to imagine what to construct if you do old things well, you'll gain traction or at least head-nodding attention earlier.

Trying brand new things might lead to head-shaking early on, but can have a greater societal impact later.

So, remember whether you play the short or long game when people either nod or shake their heads at your idea.