I’ve been writing on Twitter a lot lately. I think it’s the most important app to be on if you’re a knowledge worker. Especially tech.
You have direct access to some of the smartest people in the world. It’s pretty incredible. I used to just passively read tweets but recently started sharing more.
It’s a great way to reinforce what you’re currently learning by sharing it with others. Next week, I plan on writing about the growing importance of platforms like Twitter.
For now, I’ll just share a recent thread I wrote about how to become a builder. Enjoy and see you next week!
The world is shaped by builders.
Here's how to become one.
1. Realize the world is full of interesting problems waiting to be solved. Once you view yourself as a builder, everything becomes a source of inspiration.
2. No problem should ever be solved twice
Study history. Listen to the greats. Find mentors.
"Learn the rules like a scientist so you can break them like an artist"
3. Boredom is evil
Stay inspired. Chase challenges. Always feel unqualified. Learn to appreciate different art forms.
4. Freedom is good
Find the creative space to work on what YOU want. Avoid toxic environments built on censorship, secrecy, and manipulation.
Stand up for what you believe in. Never settle for anything less.
5. Attitude is no substitute for competence
Put in the hours. Do the work.
You can look like a builder. You can talk like a builder. Hell, you can even tweet like a builder.
But if you don't build, nothing else means shit.
6. Learn to code
The mental flexiblity needed to learn to code will serve you for the rest of your life. Even if it's just a toy program.
You begin to realize that software isn't magic. It was created by someone just like you.
7. Learn product
Understand how to build something people want. Any art or science is just a tool for serving others.
Prioritize ruthlessly. Don't compromise on quality.
8. Learn design
Design isn't about how something looks. It's about how it makes people feel. Delight them. Put a smile on their face. Blow them away.
9. Learn sales / marketing
Play positive-sum games. Build a brand that people want to tell their friends about.
10. Learn finance
Capitalism runs the world. Learn the game. Understand LTV, CAC, NPV, payback period, and financial statements.
12. Share online
Learn in public. You don't need to be an expert to teach others. You just need to be a couple steps ahead.
13. Mentor others
When people reach out, try to help. You were probably in their shoes not too long ago.
14. BUILD
There's no substitute for going out and doing the damn thing. Done is better than perfect. Learn from mistakes. Do your best.
h/t youtube.com/watch?v=WK_Xwj… by @garrytan and catb.org/~esr/faqs/hack… for inspiration
If you made it all the way down here, feel free to follow ya boi.