What separates happy RE investors from jaded REI investors?

[Chip Douglas]

As I get started, I absorb lots of inspirational books, forum accounts, and podcasts about people who are achieving their REI goals. But in real life, I meet more people who are jaded about their renters, are trying to get out, and have had terrible experiences with REI.

For those who are achieving their REI goals, what do you think separates the "good experience" people from the "bad experience" people who seem to get caught off guard? Strategy? Expectations? Renter finding? Deal finding? Persistence?

What do you think is the #1 delineator?