There are loud voices in most programming communities. It can be easy to get caught up in believing strong opinions expressed very loudly as being “best practice”s or “what you should (not) do.”

Listening to others is important. Doing so helps expose you to new ideas and lets you take advantage of other people’s valuable experiences. This is why mentoring relationships and being involved in a community are so helpful on so many levels.

Keep in mind, though, that your exact situation is unique. Even if someone means well, they may not fully understand your specific problem. Their advice may be sound in some cases but not relevant to your immediate concerns.

Beware also the people who wield golden hammers, have something to sell, or have an axe to grind. They very often have someone or something in their best interest other than you and your needs.

Beau Simensen // @beausimensen