> Build tools that everyone can use - If you see a pattern of everyone solving a problem manually, consider building tooling to simplify that workflow and spread it to maximize its usefulness.
I really like the Ownership advice. I have heard many times about “taking ownership of the work”, and I did have an idea of what is meant by that, but I think this is the first time I have heard a comprehensive explanation of what it really means.
Great article Ryan! Helpful all-around, but I particularly agree with you about influencing without authority. Even if you have the authority, talking to people like equals and winning them over with precise arguments instead of commands is a great strategy
There is a false perception that 10X engineers are ‘brilliant jerks’, and don’t like to help other. I would say that by definition those are not 10X engineers.
Uplifting Others is a must - sharing your knowledge (and time) for the benefit of others and the community. Every 10X engineer I met is always willing to help (with the appropriate caveats)
This quote is exactly what I thinking about this article: "They take complex topics and explain them simply. This makes it easy for them to influence others". So readable and easy to understand, thank you!
Love the ideas, all are very well explained and with great examples. I wonder if you have any more resources to share specifically regarding writing and speaking, I feel like those are a high priority for me atm.
Thank you Lucas! For two resources I can recommend:
1. For Writing - "On Writing Well" is a great resource for learning writing at work. You can just read the first section on "Principles" if you're strapped for time - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0060891548
2. For Speaking - You can attend your local Toastmasters club. The purpose of the club is to help you become a better speaker. At each meeting there are lots of opportunities to give speeches and get feedback. I've attended a few clubs over the years, some are great and others are less active so you might have to search around a little - https://www.toastmasters.org/
Thoughtful write-up! The self awareness and curiosity to learn /adopt and zero self centric expectations from outcome (or self less act on team based activities) shall also help.
> Build tools that everyone can use - If you see a pattern of everyone solving a problem manually, consider building tooling to simplify that workflow and spread it to maximize its usefulness.
Big fan of this one. Restacked with a quote
Glad to hear that and thanks for reading Jordan! Tooling can be so impactful because of the leverage it provides
Same here!
Interestingly, this is something you may find in every work place.
I really like the Ownership advice. I have heard many times about “taking ownership of the work”, and I did have an idea of what is meant by that, but I think this is the first time I have heard a comprehensive explanation of what it really means.
I'm glad it helped! There's a recent article I read from Wes Kao that goes into detail about how to be an owner if you wanted to learn more: https://newsletter.weskao.com/p/act-like-an-owner
Well that was a great read. Thanks for the recommendation Ryan!
Taking a look, good stuff!
Great article Ryan! Helpful all-around, but I particularly agree with you about influencing without authority. Even if you have the authority, talking to people like equals and winning them over with precise arguments instead of commands is a great strategy
100%, this reminds me of a great quote: "A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still"
Even if you have authority it's still better to convince people rather than command them
There is a false perception that 10X engineers are ‘brilliant jerks’, and don’t like to help other. I would say that by definition those are not 10X engineers.
Uplifting Others is a must - sharing your knowledge (and time) for the benefit of others and the community. Every 10X engineer I met is always willing to help (with the appropriate caveats)
Agreed, helping others can be such an impactful use of time!
This quote is exactly what I thinking about this article: "They take complex topics and explain them simply. This makes it easy for them to influence others". So readable and easy to understand, thank you!
I loved this post!
This could arguably be a daily morning read to remind yourself, like a mantra, to give your best every single day.
Code ROI, understand the WHY and the ownership mentality were my 2 favorite points.
It's easy to fall into the trap of getting much work done thinking you're doing well...
Love the ideas, all are very well explained and with great examples. I wonder if you have any more resources to share specifically regarding writing and speaking, I feel like those are a high priority for me atm.
Keep up the great work!
Thank you Lucas! For two resources I can recommend:
1. For Writing - "On Writing Well" is a great resource for learning writing at work. You can just read the first section on "Principles" if you're strapped for time - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0060891548
2. For Speaking - You can attend your local Toastmasters club. The purpose of the club is to help you become a better speaker. At each meeting there are lots of opportunities to give speeches and get feedback. I've attended a few clubs over the years, some are great and others are less active so you might have to search around a little - https://www.toastmasters.org/
Thoughtful write-up! The self awareness and curiosity to learn /adopt and zero self centric expectations from outcome (or self less act on team based activities) shall also help.