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1401 points alankay | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.208s | source

This request originated via recent discussions on HN, and the forming of HARC! at YC Research. I'll be around for most of the day today (though the early evening).
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fchopin ◴[] No.11943085[source]
Hi, Alan!

Like many here, I'm a big fan of what you've accomplished in life, and we all owe you a great debt for the great designs and features of technologies we use everyday!

The majority of us have not accomplished as much in technology, and many of us, though a minority, are in the top end of the age bell curve. I'm in that top end.

I've found over the years that I've gone from being frustrated with the churn of software/web development, to completely apathetic about it, to wanting something else- something more meaningful, and then to somewhat of an acceptance that I'm lucky just to be employed and making what I do as an older developer.

I find it very difficult to have the time and energy to focus on new technologies that come out all of the time, and less and less able as my brain perhaps is less plastic to really get into the latest JavaScript framework, etc.

I don't get excited anymore, don't have the motivation, ability, or time to keep up with things like the younger folk. Also, I've even gotten tired of mentoring them, especially as I become less able and therefore less respected.

Have you ever had or known someone that had similar feelings of futility or a serious slowdown in their career? If so, what worked/what didn't and what advice could you provide?

Thank you for taking the time to read and respond to everyone you have here. It definitely is much appreciated!

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1. pcunite ◴[] No.11949916[source]
>> what advice could you provide?

I'm not Mr. Kay, but great question!

I think we need a system, website, TV show, etc. in which experiences could be posted and rated. The best ideas and past experiences would rise to the top. You could vote and push things into view.

For example, your years of experience have realized that "yet another framework" is not the answer. We need a slower churn. But if the goal is to sell books ... well, now we are fighting capitalism.