Pay close attention to when you're being the real you & when you're trying to impress an invisible jury.

Programming languages are like girlfriends: The new one is better because *you* are better.

If you keep thinking about putting on a conference or being a Hollywood screenwriter, and you find the idea terrifies but intrigues you, it's probably a worthy endeavor for you. You grow (and thrive!) by doing what excites you and what scares you everyday, not by trying to find your passion.

It's only a little difficult to say no. You've got to believe that the work you're doing is ultimately more useful to the world.

I realized why I need to start a new company. Not for the money. Not because I'm 'bored'. But because a company is a laboratory to try your ideas.

Learning. It's really the primary reason behind everything I do. Programming, entrepreneuring, writing.

Make every decision—even decisions about whether to expand the business, raise money, or promote someone—according to what's best for your customers.