Paul Graham advises aspiring startup founders to relentlessly pursue their own curiosity. He argues that the most successful startups are built by founders deeply passionate about solving a problem they personally experience. Instead of chasing trends or abstract notions of good ideas, Graham encourages builders to work on what truly interests them, even if it seems niche or insignificant. This genuine interest will fuel the sustained effort required to overcome the inevitable challenges of building a company. By focusing on their own curiosity and building something they themselves want, founders are more likely to create something truly valuable and novel.
Facing a terminal cancer diagnosis, Stanford professor Bryant Lin refused to abandon his students. Instead, he integrated his experience with esophageal cancer into his final course, "Living With Cancer," offering a uniquely personal and real-time perspective on the disease. He openly shared his treatment journey, physical struggles, and emotional reflections, providing students with invaluable insights into the medical, social, and ethical dimensions of cancer. Lin's dedication to teaching and his willingness to be vulnerable transformed his classroom into a space of shared humanity and learning, inspiring students even as he confronted his own mortality.
HN commenters discuss the Stanford professor's decision to teach a class about his cancer journey. Several praise his bravery and openness, viewing it as a powerful way to educate students and destigmatize illness. Some question the emotional toll on both the professor and the students, wondering about the appropriateness of such a personal subject in an academic setting. Others express skepticism about the framing of the NYT piece, suggesting it's overly sentimentalized. A few commenters also share their own experiences with cancer and teaching, drawing parallels to the professor's situation. The potential for triggering students facing similar challenges is also brought up, along with concerns about the blurring of lines between professional and personal life.
The 2015 Richmond Times-Dispatch opinion piece argues that America needs to rediscover the value of skilled trades. Author J.D. Holmberg laments the societal push towards four-year college degrees, neglecting the essential roles and inherent dignity of jobs involving manual labor. He believes this has led to both a shortage of skilled workers and a devaluation of craftsmanship. Holmberg advocates for promoting vocational training and apprenticeships, emphasizing the rewarding aspects of these careers, both personally and for the overall strength of the nation's economy and infrastructure. He suggests that recognizing and celebrating the contributions of skilled tradespeople will help restore their rightful place in society.
HN commenters largely agree with the article's premise about the value of skilled trades. Several shared personal anecdotes about the satisfaction and financial stability found in such careers, contrasting it with the often-disappointing outcomes of a traditional four-year college path. Some highlighted the societal perception problem surrounding trades, emphasizing the need for better education and respect for these essential jobs. A few questioned the romanticism of manual labor, pointing to the physical toll and potential for exploitation. The idea of promoting vocational training alongside traditional academics was also discussed, with commenters suggesting earlier exposure to trades in school could help students discover their aptitudes and interests.
Summary of Comments ( 67 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43514969
HN users largely agree with Paul Graham's advice to focus on what truly compels you and to avoid prestigious but ultimately unsatisfying paths. Several commenters shared personal anecdotes of choosing passion projects over seemingly "better" opportunities, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment. Some highlighted the difficulty in identifying what truly interests you, suggesting exploration and experimentation as key. A few cautioned against blindly following passion without considering practicalities like financial stability, advocating for a balance between pursuing interests and ensuring a sustainable livelihood. The idea of "keeping your horizons narrow" to focus deeply resonated with many, although some interpreted this as focusing on a specific problem within a broader field rather than limiting oneself entirely. Finally, some users discussed the role of luck and privilege in being able to pursue unconventional paths.
The Hacker News post titled "What to Do," linking to Paul Graham's essay of the same name, has generated a fair number of comments discussing various aspects of the essay and its implications.
Several commenters delve into the idea of identifying what you truly enjoy doing, acknowledging the complexities and challenges involved. One commenter highlights the difficulty in discerning between genuine enjoyment and societal pressures or the pursuit of status. They point out that many activities might initially seem enjoyable due to external validation, but the underlying motivation might not be genuine passion. Another echoes this sentiment, adding that the search for what one wants to do can often be a distraction from simply doing things and discovering through action. The importance of experimentation and trying new things is emphasized, suggesting that passion isn't always found, but sometimes developed through experience.
Another thread of discussion centers around the financial realities and pressures that can influence career choices. Commenters acknowledge the privilege inherent in Graham's advice, recognizing that not everyone has the luxury of pursuing passion projects without considering financial stability. One commenter argues that focusing solely on what one loves can lead to a precarious financial situation, making it difficult to later pursue opportunities even within the field of interest. The discussion also touches on the practicality of identifying marketable skills and balancing passion with financial viability.
A few comments focus on the essay's target audience. Some believe Graham's advice is primarily aimed at young people or those early in their careers, suggesting that the flexibility and freedom to experiment are more readily available at those stages. Others discuss the challenges of applying this advice in different life circumstances, such as those with families or existing career commitments.
Some commenters offer more critical perspectives on Graham's essay. One points out the potential for self-deception when attempting to identify one's true calling, suggesting that people may rationalize their choices based on existing skills or perceived advantages. Another highlights the importance of understanding the market demand for chosen skills, warning against pursuing niche passions with limited career prospects. One commenter even suggests that the pursuit of "doing what you love" can sometimes be a form of procrastination, delaying necessary but less enjoyable tasks.
Finally, several commenters share personal anecdotes and experiences related to the topic. Some recount their journeys of discovering their passions, while others share stories of career changes and the challenges involved in pursuing non-traditional paths. These personal stories provide concrete examples and add a layer of practical insight to the broader discussion.