Human Factors
I’m very interested in the theory of things. I’ve read books about code theory and design theory, and other miscellaneous ramblings. There are times that I think that this practice is as pointless as constantly wonder why we’ve been put on this Earth. We could just try to lead a fulfilling life without obsessing over answers that may never come. But, we can do both and so we do.
I’m often more interested in discussing theory than I am in the actual execution of ideas, but that won’t get you anywhere. And it’s difficult to get paid for that. But don’t confuse discussing theory with sitting around and talking about what ‘the plan’ is. I’m not interested in that. I’ve had good project vision in the past, but that doesn’t mean I like to get around a table and talk about it excessively. I prefer to start working.
I love a good label as much as the next guy, which is why I feel I should tell you that since I’ve started reading Managing Humans, I’ve realized that I’m somewhat of a Completionist. And that seems to be both good and bad, like everything else. I like to shape what I’m doing to fit my pre-existing methods, and I have a very specific way of doing things. I attempt to achieve consistency in process because I believe that innovation, within a certain set of limitations, is best served by this type of foundation. But, I also think that the opposite may be true and that I’m ensuring mediocrity.
I’ve known plenty of Incrementalists. It is easiest to navigate my working life by recognizing the skills others have that I do not. We try to achieve some sort of collaboration that brings out the best in all parties. I know lots of smart people that I’m really impressed with, but I never forget that we’ve come to our positions and developed our skills along very different paths. And these differences explain the type of questions we ask, what we believe, and where we draw boundaries regarding our work.
