By the age of 16, hanging out at the university computer center, I'd figured out I was good at writing programs. I wasn't the best around -- I can still remember the 12-year-old who made my jaw drop with his knowledge -- but I was pretty good.

I'm now 42. Over the years my "progammer's toolkit" has grown immeasurably, but the skills I've acquired that have made me a better programmer aren't just about writing programs. They include

• the ability to listen and understand the "big picture" behind the programming problem;
• the patience to keep plugging at a frustrating bit of design or code;
• the social skills to interact with co-workers, clients, and subordinates;

I certainly don't want to imply that the "stroke of genius" isn't important. But it's not the only thing; maturity and real-world experience count for a lot.

It's part of why I'm happy to see "plays well with others" on my kids' report cards. ;-)