I understand what you're saying. I'm aware of pretty much everything you said and I try to build startups in that way. I only work on projects that I can start small and grow. For example I had an idea for a more 'human' analytics app, which instead of showing graphs and statics would explain what was happening and ways to improve things with text. So I thought I'd keep it lean and started with just Twitter analytics and no body cared for it. I still love the idea but I don't have the time or resources to build it into the app I want it to be.
Thanks though, I do appreciate the advise.