Decades in the Machine - Meaning and Purpose in Technology - David Whitney

Programming careers are about problem-solving skills and adaptability rather than mastering specific technologies or frameworks

Don’t tie your identity to particular languages, frameworks or tools - they will change throughout your career

Specializing too early can trap you in a narrow career path. Focus on broadening technical horizons and understanding different ecosystems

“Best practices” are context-dependent and constantly evolving. Question dogmatic approaches and consider what works best for each situation

Passion for technology has been weaponized by companies to extract more work for less compensation. Set healthy boundaries

Take ownership of your work by open sourcing when possible, building a portfolio, and maintaining access to your creations

Burnout is a system-wide issue by design. Prioritize work-life balance and finding joy in creation over hustle culture

Be kind to newcomers, share knowledge generously, and foster an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse perspectives

Technological changes are cyclical - what’s old becomes new again. Having historical context helps navigate these cycles

Focus on building problem-solving expertise and soft skills that transcend specific technologies for long-term career sustainability

Care about the craft and quality of your work, but don’t let a company flatter you into overworking through job titles or “passion”