In computer science and in life, there are a lot of ways you can screw up the program. The way I want to talk about is the logic error, the one that has nothing to do with how I phrase the instructions, but rather that occurred because I didn’t create a successful algorithm. This kind of error has nothing to do with knowledge, but with experience. No matter how well I know a language, I can still make something silly happen with it.
So how am I supposed to avoid logic errors? Testing the algorithm helps, but there is only so much trial and error can do. Eventually plain simple thought is what actually produces the answer. Seems obvious right? Well, if thought were a liquid running through the pipes of my mind, there would be a few ways to clear the way for freer flow.
Sleep/Exercise – mind-body connection here, my body should be healthy in order for my mind to be
Dealing with Animal magnetism – a term from Christian Science, I use it to cover all the mental failings that don’t really seem to come from anywhere but can become a problem; note upon speaking with a Christian Science practitioner – according to Christian Science in order to defeat animal magnetism I have to pray to know that God is Mind
examples being – doubt of my own ability to succeed, depression, loneliness, etc. Dealing with these issues is as simple as refusing to listen to any thought that tells me emotions are in control of my decisions instead of me. I’m not arguing for a Spock-like repression of emotions – emotions are okay to feel, but reason and consistent decisions should be what lead me.
Willingness to make mistakes – Part of computer programming is the thrill of tackling new challenges. It’s only a matter of time before I’ll know %80 of it, but there will always be that last remaining %20 that escapes me. Without the courage to try things, I’ll be stuck trying the same old solutions when what is needed is radical new approaches.
Listening to other people’s solutions – Letting someone else help me out can be a humbling experience. The truth is I don’t have all the answers, and somebody out there probably has the one I’m looking for. I have to be willing to admit my own weaknesses and failings and then, when the opportunity presents itself, take the time to hear what others have learned and are going through.
The one thing a computer isn’t going to do for me is think. It takes effort, but it is a reward in and of itself.