I consider myself a pragmatist and don't pick my engineering stack or methodology based on what's trending. I believe that methodologies (lean, agile, waterfall), and even certain best practices, although valuable in the right context, should not be used in a prescriptive fashion.

Experience has shown me that each project presents a unique battleground, and that the tactics and strategies for carrying out the mission should be determined based on the objectives and resources available. Balancing short-term and long-term goals while maintaining healthy team dynamics is not an exact science and not something learned from a textbook. We must be fair and honest in gauging the wants, needs, strengths and weaknesses of our peers in order to produce an equitable formula that keeps everyone happy and productive.

If we are to grow and evolve, we should accept that there are no immutable rules or "sacred cows", and we must continuously reflect and iterate so we can apply lessons learned in our pursuit of self-improvement.

I like humble, friendly people, and try to foment optimism and positivity wherever I go.