Following up on a previous reflection about working within my current constraints, I was thinking about multiple models of awesomeness.

• There's the 10X Hero Programmer idea of someone who can brilliantly cut through the clutter and write just the code that's needed to solve the problem you didn't know you had. Awesomeness might involve being able to perceive the true need, bring together different components, and create something solid.
• There are architects and team enablers who can work within organizations (both formal and informal) to make bigger things happen. Awesomeness might involve balancing multiple trade-offs, keeping track of complex structures, and using soft skills to get stuff done.
• There are people who envision products and services, bringing them to the people who need them. They might create things themselves, or they might invest in forming a team to create things.
• There are people who create bridges for other people so that they can get started or they can develop their skills. Awesomeness might involve presenting things in a clear, logical, inspiring, and useful manner. Plenty of role models doing cool stuff in this area, and lots of ways to grow.

Oh, that's interesting. That makes sense to me. I can see myself growing into that last one. It fits the things that tickle my brain.

I don't have to worry about doing Clever Things or Big Things. As I get better at doing what I already enjoy doing, sharing what I'm learning and helping other people along the way, I'll find my own path to awesomeness.