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Discussion on: The Five Pillars of a Successful Career in Software

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Bruce Axtens

Pillar 6: Being in the right place at the right time.

As the Bible says, in Ecclesiastes 9:11:

I have observed something else under the sun. The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don’t always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time.

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blackwellsmith

This could be translated into “Who do you associate with?” Do you surround yourself with people that believe in you? Have positive energy? Are actively pursuing similar goals? Answer these questions with yes your in the right place. Then add some patience...if you have the time.

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David Wickes

Ecclesiastes is full of fine advice for a developer.

Vanitatis vanitatum, omnia vanitas

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Abe Dolinger

I heard a great corollary to this from Country Joe (of Country Joe and the Fish). He said, "Everyone always says it's about being in the right place at the right time, but what no one tells you is, that means being everywhere, all the time." It's hyperbole, but it's a good reminder that if you really want to make it you're going to have to put yourself out there. A lot.