When I write books, I write some words I don’t need in this book. (Sometimes, not any book…) Sometimes, I try to write a Pragmatic Manager, and I edit it so much that there are plenty of words I don’t use. I keep files on my hard drive with names such as “StufftoUseSomeday.” I get […]
What Do You Give Yourself Credit For? Read More »
As we proceed in this long winter, it’s clear that Boston has significant infrastructure technical debt. The subway/bus system, known as the “T” has to shut down to clear the tracks. That’s due to several problems: The system is a combination above-ground and underground system The system is not resilient. Many of the cars are
Do You Need Annoyance to Change? Read More »
Have you ever asked, “Honey, where’s the milk?” You know where it’s supposed to be in the fridge. But, you can’t see it. Honey replies, “It’s right where it always is. In the door, next to the OJ.” You finally see it. “Oh, thanks so much.” You have (fe)male eye disease. In our house, we
What Do You Pay Attention To? Read More »
Rather than be predictable and ask you what you are thankful for this week, I thought I’d ask you a different question. But first, let me tell you a story. I’m a good amateur cook and baker. I like to cook dessert. I don’t need dessert. I like dessert. Last week, we had dinner with
What Haven’t You Changed? Read More »
When we were purging the house, I asked the question, “Does this thing enhance my life?” It was a good question to see if I wanted to keep or eliminate whatever I was holding. It’s not quite the same question as “Is Anyone Using This?” That’s a question from the outside. “Does This Enhance My
Does This Enhance My Life? Read More »
I cleaned out my closet with Helene, a professional organizer, last week, in preparation for our move to a new house. I said No to countless pocketbooks and belts, all gifts from either my mother or mother-in-law. I also said No to old shoes that I am never going to use: Old top-siders I used
What Did You Say No to Today? Read More »
How optimistic are you? I am optimistic. I learned that when I read Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life by Martin Seligman. Yes, there’s a test for how optimistic you are. Why does it matter how optimistic you are? Optimists do better in school, college, at work, and in sports. He
Book Review: Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life Read More »
About 18 months ago, I noticed that my vertigo symptoms were changing. I brought a list of my symptoms and when things had started to change. I wrote about this and my choices in Making Difficult Choices. If you are trying to solve a nasty problem in your code, tests or your projects, it’s the
I’m in London this week, teaching and speaking. I’m having a blast. When I made reservations at this hotel, I asked many questions. I looked for a hotel where I could reserve a walk-in shower. I know that many hotels in London have no facilities for handicapped people, so I asked. Yes, this one did.
What Filters Do You Have? Read More »
I discussed perfection rules in my Do Your Rules Prevent You From Solving Problems? But, other rules can prevent you from living as full a life as you might want. When I was in 10th grade, I took French (the language). I wasn’t so good at French. My teacher told me he would give me
Are You In the “Here-and-Now” or in the “There-and-Then”? Read More »