Inside the Mind of a Champion

My guiding principle, Own-S3-Fix, ensures a systematic and proactive approach when tasked with a new idea or fixing an old implementation. Here is how I implement this principle in my work:

• Capturing Requirements: I create detailed notes based on my understanding to capture the requirements, which helps me comprehend the problem accurately.
• Developing a Plan: I create flow/sequence diagrams (if necessary) to support the notes and outline the development plan. This visual representation helps outline the path to the solution.
• Team Presentation: The implementation notes I present to the team could be accepted, rejected, or asked to be improved. Instead of complaining about the problem, having a solution plan enables open discussion and corrective measures.
• Solution Mindset: I don’t believe in entering a discussion with just a problem statement. Having at least one solution is essential, irrespective of how wild the solution may be.

• Clear Documentation: By documenting requirements and creating flow diagrams, I ensure that the path to the solution is optimal and well-understood.
• Effective Communication: Clear documents facilitate effective communication within the team, leading to better planning and execution.

Personal Commitment = Timely Delivery: I always deliver on my promise. If I commit, I ensure I meet it by any means possible. This Commitment has helped me consistently deliver on or before deadlines, regardless of the situation. While external factors may cause project delays, my tasks are never late.

Staying relevant in the fast-paced world of technology is both a challenge and an opportunity. To ensure my relevance, I do the following:

• Daily Learning Routine: Before bedtime, I browse LinkedIn for insightful articles and updates. This routine helps me stay aware of the latest tech trends and advancements, gain diverse perspectives, and understand the emerging best practices in my field.
• Networking with Industry Experts: I often discuss work-related topics online or talk to friends and contacts in leading companies, particularly those relevant to the technology I work on. These conversations provide me with valuable insights and practical tips. For example, when working on eCommerce projects, my contacts at major companies like Amazon, Gojek, and Google have shared invaluable information and strategies I have applied to my work.

I do not see work and life as separate entities. They are an integral part of life, and I strive to harmonize rather than compartmentalize them. By starting my day early, I get 2-3 hours of uninterrupted time before daily meetings kick in. I aim to wrap up my work before sunset, creating space for family time.

• Invest in Passion: Invest in the work you love, and the money will follow. You can read my blog on this topic: Key to Successful Professional Life
• Value Problem-Solving Skills: Build your value and solve problems neatly.
• Manage Your Manager: Learn to manage your manager.

• 0-3 Years: Be fluent in data structures and algorithms (DSA), have basic problem-solving skills, and have expertise in at least one programming language.
• 2-6 Years: Gain fluency in high-level design (HLD) and low-level design (LLD), technical depth in at least one end-to-end stack, and exposure to business context.
• 5-9 Years: Develop skills in software architectures, domain-level expertise, good coding practices, soft skills, and understanding of the bigger picture of the project.
• 8+ Years: Aim to become a subject matter expert in everything mentioned above.

During my initial phase, I was frustrated that my work was recognized and praised without monetary gains. I soon realized that our company leaders believe in testing our commitment to work and that monetary benefits follow. This understanding encouraged me to work hard and advance my career.