Change the Emphasis, Change the Outcome.

Here's my hot-take for 2023.

Every technologist has been approached at least once (probably hundreds of times) to help solve something where we have:

1. Zero context/background
2. Limited time/other priorities

RESPONSE 1: "I don't know anything about this and I can't believe you're asking me to help...thanks a lot...".

RESPONSE 2: "I don't know anything about this (yet), and I can't believe you're asking me to help - thanks a lot!"

(I know, these are not in any way real responses, but it helps make the point).

Every ask in IT is an opportunity to expand your knowledge in some way.

You have two resources at your disposal - time (personal and professional) and knowledge (skills).

Saying "thanks" (not sarcastically) will instantly change your perception that you will lose time and gain nothing by helping. Yes, you will lose time today. But whatever you learn will save you time one day, probably in many multiples - because more knowledge = more productivity, every time.

So, as we enter 2024, I want every one of my tech-buds to see if we can change the emphasis and change the outcome. Framing a problem as an opportunity, instead of a threat, takes no time and costs nothing. Make 2024 the year you take a simple step to open up a world of possibilities....you never know what saying 'thanks for the opportunity' could create.

2023 - out...

P.S - yes this applies to PMs, BAs, Testers, Managers, etc. But technologists are perpetually in problem-solving mode and we can probably make the biggest difference.