The author reflects on 13 years of blogging, noting the unexpected challenges of maintaining a server and dealing with viral traffic. They emphasize that the longevity and personal growth from consistent blogging cannot be replicated by AI-generated content. The blog serves as a record of career hurdles, lessons learned, and connections made over time.
The author reflects on lying to a colleague about a workplace mistake a decade ago as an intern. He advises controlling emotional reactions, communicating mistakes matter-of-factly, and accepting that some mistakes are inevitable when taking necessary risks in engineering work.
The author reflects on how skill development often occurs through sudden "phase changes" rather than gradual progress, drawing from their experience with running and programming. They explore whether these mental leaps can be accelerated or if it's more productive to motivate people to persist until the phase change occurs naturally.
The author describes being addicted to being useful, which drives their enjoyment of software engineering despite industry challenges. They compare themselves to Gogol's character Akaky Akaievich, whose dysfunctional traits matched his terrible job. Many software engineers are motivated by internal compulsions like solving puzzles rather than external rewards.
Coca-Cola has reintroduced Mr. Pibb, replacing Pibb Xtra, which had been the brand's formulation since 2001. The new version features updated packaging, increased caffeine, and a flavor that the author describes as reminiscent of the original Pibb. The product is currently available in select markets with a national rollout planned for 2026.
The article argues that speed prevents wisdom by allowing people to avoid reflection and learning from experience. Wisdom requires slowing down to process uncomfortable experiences that dismantle opinions and ideas. The author suggests wise people appear unhurried because they understand important things take the time they need.