Well it depends on your level of play. Every time you go up a level, it seems that the "only way to win" is early rushes. Used to be the same for many players I'm sure for prince, then monarch, then emporer, then immortal etc. Then you get used to it, get a bit better at tech trading, diplomacy, build a few less wonders than before. Soon enough you can win on the level above by waiting for construction before starting your first war. Eventually you'll be getting diplomatic victories with a few rennaissance wars only. If you step up a level, sure, you'll lose some games. But getting out of your "comfort level" will make you a better player much quicker than winning every monarch game you play.