6 things real life has taught me about tech
The holidays always lead to some interesting conversations. This year, I was able to share my thoughts that anyone, worth their salt, working in tech needs to be tinkering outside their normal day-to-day routine to stay relevant. And, I was able to digest some thoughts on healthcare reform, balanced diets, and choosing baby names. Somehow these chats got me to thinking about which real life lessons apply to people in startups or technology in general.
Eat a good breakfast
Just do it, or you’ll regret it. People that don’t eat breakfast murder puppies, kittens and baby elephants. You’re not a murderer are you?
That lawn won’t mow itself
Just start working, and worry about the little details later. No amount of thinking is going to help you get the lawn mowed any faster or deal with that snake that you won’t see and will inadvertently run over.
Don’t be lazy
If you’re lazy at home the dog will piss on the rug (or worse). In tech, someone is going to pass you by. If you’re a startup, your competitors will launch new functionality that makes you look like you’re from the stone-age. If you’re an employee and you get lazy about learning new skills, you’ll be 50 years old and an expert in fixing printers, and then trying to find a job because your safe corporate gig evaporated.
Think before you speak
People have a habit of remembering the dumb and mean things you say much more readily than any nuggets of true genius you may spout. It’s fine to be an ass, but save it for when you intend to be one.
Be yourself
People can tell when you try to fake it. So, don’t. Don’t take a job, or start a company that makes you act uncomfortable at a fundamental level. You’ll be lousy. This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t push your limits. But, you need discover your limits and know which define you and which don’t.
Get plenty of rest
You can’t work at full-tilt constantly any more than you can stay up till dawn for 2 weeks renovating the house. You’ll cause yourself to make mistakes, and you’ll be less effective when you’re exhausted. Unless you really want to accidentally use shampoo instead of body wash, or put the car in reverse when you meant drive.
I’m sure there are more lessons that translate well, but this is what I’ve come up with so far. What from real life has helped you in tech?
