Chapter 23. The Nerd Handbook

OK, we’re halfway through the book, so it’s time for a break. Much of this book is focused on you. Your current job and your plan for your career. This wonderfully narcissistic journey is not one you’re going to complete alone; you have an extensive supporting cast.

It’s not just your boss and your coworkers, but also your friends. Angela, who you’ve known for years, who you must meet for a drink and a professional vent every three months. There’s Ryan, the annoying guy on the train who somehow randomly lands that quip that changes your day. And Lorraine. She runs the coffee shop, and her mood and her coffee can set the tone for the start of your day. You are surrounded by folks who support you, whether you realize it or not, and I haven’t even mentioned the most important—your significant other.

The following chapter is not for you; it’s for them. My hope is that you can look up from this book and see them sitting there on the couch. They have questions about you. They don’t know how you can sit at the computer for five hours straight. They find you funny, but they don’t know where that funny comes from.

Stand up and hand them this chapter right now. If they’re not in visual range, turn the corner of the page as a reminder that part of your success will be the understanding of those who support you.

Understanding Your Nerd

Hi. You’ve just been handed this book by someone important to you who also happens to be a nerd. This nerd would like you to read this ...

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