Many people set resolutions, but often they remain fantasies. However, the underlying hope of becoming a better version of oneself is admirable.

Embracing New Year's Resolutions

Aspirations often require forming new habits, which can be challenging amidst a busy schedule. However, the workplace provides a substantial daily block of time for potential improvement.

Overcoming the Challenge of New Habits

Devoting just 10% of the workday to deliberate practice can significantly contribute to personal and professional advancement.

Investing Time in Deliberate Practice

Reflecting on personal career advancement, dedicating time to getting better at existing skills proved to be the key.

Advancement Through Commitment

Experience can streamline familiar tasks, but it might hinder exploration of new approaches. Actively choosing the longer route and focusing on aesthetics through deliberate practice can lead to novel solutions and continuous learning.

Programming: Balancing Experience and Innovation

Searching for aesthetic satisfaction in work, characterized by clarity, cohesion, consistency, and conciseness, often unveils valuable lessons.

The Beauty of Aesthetic Satisfaction

A practical way to apply aesthetic principles is by repeatedly reading and rewriting drafts, whether in programming or decision-making.

Practical Implementation: Reading and Rewriting

The pull request serves not only as a collaborative tool with others but also as a means of self-collaboration. It offers a comprehensive view of the work, aiding in evaluating both functionality and design.

Collaboration with Self: The Pull Request

Juniors often overlook the value of careful, repeated study of their own work, whether in programming or other disciplines. Refining techniques early pays off throughout one's career.

The Importance of Self-Study

Applying the repetition loop—write, revise, repeat—similar to doing reps in a gym, enhances writing skills over time. Incremental improvements through consistent effort yield significant results.

Writing: The Repetition Loop

Career growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking time to refine skills pays dividends throughout a long career. Prioritizing quality over speed is essential for long-term success.

The Intellectual Iron Man

Acknowledging the incremental pursuit of betterment and dedicating time to refine techniques is crucial for professional growth. Slowing down to do things smoothly ultimately leads to increased efficiency.

Deciding What Matters

Work provides ample opportunities for improvement; the main challenge is the will to seize them. Make 2024 count by moving obstacles and witnessing the transformative power of a year dedicated to growth.

Commit to Competence in 2024: A Guide to Professional Growth

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