Professional Development Pre-Work

JamesSullivan_ProDev.md

Professional Development Questions

by James Sullivan

1. Several points in the twenty nine list jumped out at me. First, saying I don't know resonated with me. I imagine I will be saying this a lot while learning a new skill. It takes courage to reach out for help sometimes and I need to remember that it will benefit me in the long run to directly address things I don't know. Secondly, I identified with understanding code is cheap. Perceived time investments coupled with a sub optimal approach can be counter productive. I need to rememeber that I am truly invested in learning how to code well. This may mean having a willingness to scrap some bad habits for better ones, even if it means more time. Lastly, I must take responibility for my mistakes. In a team environment, holding myself accountable will not only benefit the team dynamic, but can turn mistakes into valuable learning opportunites.

2. After reading the article, I see that checklists can benefit everyone, even experts with vast experience. Checklists already play a big part in organizing my life. I have recently began implementing David Alan's Getting Things Done system and it has helped me tremendously. Checklists, as described by Atul Gawande, could also benefit me in learning to code and beyond. The article, along with personal experience remind me how often minor oversights turn into big problems. This can be true for the novice and for the expert, thinking they have a handle on the procedure. I will be mindful of this approach as I begin my studies and carry on honing my craft.

3. Strength-based development seems to address the diversity of people in the work place in a positive way. I am certainly curious to see my own stregths evaluated. As of now, I believe my strengths lie in interpersonal commuication. I also believe I carefully weigh options and process information well. Going forward, I would like to remain aware of my strengths and weaknesses to become a more well rounded individual, professionally and personally. I look forward to participating in this excercise to not only get another perspective on my strengths, but learning effective ways to manage them.