Showing up in your dad's Ferrari

I have around 20 years of experience in Tech, having rotated through many roles, most notably that of CTO, it’s only natural that I’m frequently approached for advice. Nowadays, even non-programmers, with the help of AI, have managed to build things that look impressive.

I never expected that people with no background in programming would be able to produce a complete product using only prompts. To an outside observer, it’s hard to tell that the tower isn't built of stone, but of paper.

As a hobby, for another 20-some years, I’ve served as a troubadour and music producer. Now, people come to me with their AI-generated songs for feedback. These songs are truly impressive. The vocalists, in particular, hit notes I couldn't reach even in my dreams.

The reason I bring up both examples is that they share a lot in common. In both cases, the creator has the power but lacks the wisdom. They have the tools but don't command respect. It’s like showing up in your dad's Ferrari. Some heads will turn, but at the end of the day, everyone knows you didn't earn it. It was handed to you.

The thing about skills, culture, character, and taste is that no one can hand them to you. On the contrary, you have to toil for them. And it is that very process that evolves you as a human being.