They don't strictly contradict each other because they are not mutually exclusive. Both methods are valid
> This leads me to believe that most people either get lucky and then apply a framework in retrospect to justify their luck
Definitely a thing. Survivorship bias.
> tried to build, calibrate, engage in SEO, talk to customers, but I can't seem to find traction
Are you speaking with people? Face to face, in person. That's more important than the online marketing methods at first. Manual onboarding.
They don't strictly contradict each other because they are not mutually exclusive. Both methods are valid
> This leads me to believe that most people either get lucky and then apply a framework in retrospect to justify their luck
Definitely a thing. Survivorship bias.
> tried to build, calibrate, engage in SEO, talk to customers, but I can't seem to find traction
Are you speaking with people? Face to face, in person. That's more important than the online marketing methods at first. Manual onboarding.