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Five(ish) Things I Don't Know About You
Imagine you want to get to know someone and you can ask only five questions. What would you ask? What would you most want to know? Obviously it depends on the context--you'd ask different questions of someone you're dating vs. a job interviewee vs. a customer vs. someone your daughter is dating. But I wonder, should the questions we ask our users be that different from the ones we'd ask our dates?
Think of all those surveys you've taken. If you're signing up for a conference, magazine, or online news site, you usually get things like:
1) What do you do for a living? [Choose an industry and job title]
2) How big is your budget?
4) What are your purchasing plans for [whatever the domain is, with timeframes]
3) Are you "the decider"?
In other words, "How useful are you to our advertisers and sponsors?" Those surveys say to me, "The only thing we care about is how much you can buy."
If it's a customer survey, you often get things like:
1) How old are you?
2) What gender are you?
3) How old are your kids?
4) What's your total household income?
5) Do you own or rent your home?
In other words, "The only thing we care about is selling more things to you and other people who fit your demographics."
Those questions tell you little about me as a person. If we want passionate users, shouldn't we care about what they care about? Obviously there are personal questions that might not be appropriate for customers, but most of us here are trying to have a more personal connection with users, and that means doing more to get to know them as individual people.
By now, you've probably seen the "Five Things You Probably Don't Know About Me" meme floating around, which I've enjoyed reading. And several wonderful bloggers have tagged me for this including:
passionate analyst Dylan Lewis
Cool Cat Teacher (aka Vicki Davis)
Passionate Communicator Lee Hopkins
and the must-must-must read creativity guy Roger von Oech
Well, I'm much more interested in knowing something about you--our wonderful readers we learn so much from. So, I'm asking you for a huge favor--to answer some or all of the following five questions here in comments--or on your own blog (please let us know). Which brings me back to the start of this post, which five questions should I ask? Normally my first question would be, "Which books do you wish others would read?", but fortunately I've already asked y'all that and got a fantastic reading list. But, here are the other five(ish) things I'd love to know:
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]
Thanks! And best wishes to y'all for a wonderful 2007. I know 2006 sucked for many of us, but the new year is a powerful metaphor for 'starting new.' At the very least, you get to start a new calendar and crack open a crisp, fresh, Moleskine ; )
[Photo of Daniel knitting at Foo Camp by Brian Sawyer]
[Photo of me is so old I can't remember who took it. And would you get a look at the size of those trucks? Not to mention the 80's hairstyle...]
Posted by Kathy on December 30, 2006 | Permalink
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Comments
1. What was the last remodeling project you've done?
Posted by: john | Dec 30, 2006 11:40:37 PM
0) Personal: http://www.jacobandmarcia.com Professional: http://www.jacobthurman.com
1) The most fun work I've ever done is teaching drummers in the high school marching band. Nothing beats showing young people just how much they can achieve when they really work at it.
2)A. I used to seek out every possible opportunity to practice my Russian, but I haven't had a conversation or read a book in Russian in over a year now. B. I've always wanted to learn to fly - get a pilots license - but just haven't done it yet.
3)A. I would like to learn to memorize - to remember quotes and poems and scripture and names and dates and other things that are always sort of there but not quite. B. I would want to learn from Jesus Christ, and I would want to learn whatever he wanted to tell me.
4) My family would probably describe me as "talented," "smart," and "tall." I WISH I could be described as "friendly," and "generous."
5) My top three passions are - in no particular order, Church, Music, and Family. I kind of surprised myself that computers, programming, technology, or money didn't make that list.
6) "When was the last time you let nature, art, or some other beautiful thing move you to tears?" For me, it was watching a play - Peter Schaffer's Amadeus. I had been involved as the "music expert" in putting on the play, and so had seen many rehearsals, but the final dress rehearsal, with lights and costumes and everything, was magical. When Mozart died and Costanze's cries coincided with the height of the Lacrymosa from Mozart's mass, I cried. And it was good.
Posted by: Jacob Thurman | Dec 30, 2006 11:48:07 PM
0) Ron Davison http://rwrld.blogspot.com/
1) The most fun? Probably teaching Covey's 7 Habit seminars those weeks when everything clicked. What's better than a three-day conversation about how you became you and how you'd change that?
2)What do I wish I still did? Regularly jog through the redwoods on campus at UC Santa Cruz, coming out of the grove to see the ocean below.
3A) I'd like to write like Csikszentmihalyi or Anne LaMott - or a cross between them. I'd also like to play a musical instrument.
3B) I'd like to take a course from Thomas Jefferson or Martin Luther or Henry VIII or Wilhelm Humboldt on social transformation and creating new institutions.
4) Tall, goofy, talkative.
5) My top three passions are humor, decoding the mystery of how people fell in love or found a calling, and social evolution.
6)Question I'd ask: What shape would you make earth if not a globe?
My answer: I think that a cube might allow more interesting experiments in separation - keeping otherwise feuding folks from contact. It might work.
6) Do you think the ultimate state of humanity is a state of sustainable joy or extinction? How does that change your sense of responsibility towards the future?
P.S. Regardless of whether you rode a skateboard or blog, it looks like you'd attract a following.
Posted by: Ron | Dec 30, 2006 11:59:53 PM
Thanks for asking. Here's my answers...
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
Kathryn Greenhill from Librarians Matter http://librariansmatter.com
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
* Community Information Librarian - Using all the useless trivia I knew to answer little questions that made a huge difference to people's lives
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max
* Swim daily
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
* Learn piano
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
* Walking up to a circle of people at a social funtion and joining in
* Singing
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
* Compassion with Buddha
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
*Talkative, energetic, colourful
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
* Kind, open
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
* Helping people to connect
* Grassroots community theatre/circus
* Finding balance for me and those around me
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
* Q. Why do you live where you live?
* A. The people are off beat and involved with each other, near the beach, relaxed and easy going.
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]
* Is what I'm doing fair and going to make the world better?
Posted by: Kathryn Greehnill | Dec 31, 2006 12:20:50 AM
Delurking to join in the Old Year's Day fun:
0. John Skinner, www.skinnerconsulting.com
1. teaching CAD macro-language programming courses.
2. playing the violin.
3a. being at ease in social settings, and recognizing an opportunity when it arises.
3b. I would like Bill Gates to teach me how to write and sell software profitably.
4a. intelligent, curious, eccentric
4b. outgoing, generous
5. music, reading, looking at the world
6a. "Have you ever actually thought about your beliefs, or did you just inherit them?"
6b. Well, the balance is getting better every day. The unexamined life is indeed not worth living, or at least should be lived with one's mouth firmly closed.
Happy New Year, Kathy. I hope it's a better one for you (and all of us) than 2006 was.
Posted by: John Skinner | Dec 31, 2006 2:54:08 AM
0) What's your name and website URL?
Ryan Fox, http://www.eng.uwaterloo.ca/~rcfox/
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
I opened an internet café with my friends. I was in control of how things were run, and I got to spend long hours playing games on my computer.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did?
Do well in school. :(
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off?
Put that soldering iron to more use.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why?
How to talk to girls. Haha.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
I'd like to be Edison's apprentice, to learn to be more creative and use the creativity practically.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Witty, quiet, nocturnal
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Disciplined, charming
5) What are your top three passions?
Programming, engineering, humour.
6) What have you regretted saying the most?
"You're joking, right?" - I don't want to provide context, but it ended badly...
Posted by: Ryan Fox | Dec 31, 2006 3:55:00 AM
Here's my answers:
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
David Carlson - http://davidreport.com/blog
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Travelling to Paris and London for Level Vodka on a research of luxury consumer goods. It did not hurt at all to eat at three star restaurants and stay at luxury hotels...
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Play guitar in a band - or being a DJ.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Learning to sail.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
I would like to play tennis more often. And to have more time with my four children.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
It would have been nice to meet Andy Warhol in his factory.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
curious, absent-minded...,
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Kind, brave, funny
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
Old roses, travelling with my family, music
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
What will you do during 2007 to make life better for as many people on earth as possible?
Some possible answers: Work for a non-profit organisation, take the bike instead of the car every now and then, support your local dealer
Happy New Year!
Posted by: David Carlson | Dec 31, 2006 5:19:05 AM
Well usually I never answer such things but since I'm so addicted to your blog (passionate user? :P) I can't refuse :)
0) Yonatan Ben-Nes http://www.epoch.co.il (it's in Hebrew so...)
1) can't really answer cause I always do what I want to do.... living the moment I guess (If you don't like what you do then quit it! you won't be good at it anyway...)
2)
a. Playing D&D... sadly no more time can be allocated to it :)
b. Flying for a year or so at India
3)
a. I want to learn body language in a more serious way, it's important for understanding others and even yourself.
Though this question doesn't really fit me... I think I just like to learn almost everything.
4) hmmm... their world is theirs, I can't really answer this question... too subjective.
5) 1. living! (amazing how people forget to do it most of the times...) 2. achieving goals (currently my "work") 3. hmmm... let's say motorcycles
6) I used to take hitch hikers and ask from them a "payment" for the ride... I used to ask from them to tell me something that THEY found interesting/amusing (even if it's the egg that they ate at the morning).
Bonus! people should always ask themself when they feel down... "does it help me that I feel down?" if the answer is NO! then why you keep doing it? :)
Thanks for this gr8 blog!
Yonatan Ben-Nes (Israel)
Posted by: Yonatan Ben-Nes | Dec 31, 2006 5:34:47 AM
Posting mine on my site: http://scotchneat.ca/?p=332
Posted by: scotchneat | Dec 31, 2006 5:49:44 AM
0) Karen (aka Cab Sav) from Infinite Diversty (and Tech Writer) over at http://www.infinitediversity.com.au.
1) Actually, I'm really enjoying the job I have now. Technical and writing combined.
2) A. I wish I still exercised.
B. Cycle through Vietnam.
3) A. Singing, because I love music, and can't sing. Ditto, drawing.
B. Ted Elliot and Terry Rossio--a screenwriting apprentice.
4) A. Patient, fun, trustworthy (I asked, and got that answer. I'm happy)
B. Happy, compassionate.
5) Top three passions -- writing, environment, travel.
6) If you could give up your job and do whatever you wanted to, what would you do? Answer: Travel the world.
[Bonus question] If you could choose to live your life again, would you?
Posted by: Cab Sav | Dec 31, 2006 5:52:39 AM
I dunno.. If I asked the questions, they'd be:
1. If you could have dinner/conversation with any one person, who would it be?
2. What's the biggest mistake you've ever made?
3. What are you most passionate about?
4. What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (okay, that's a good one)
5. How did you end up where you are?
Posted by: Steve Mitchell | Dec 31, 2006 7:09:18 AM
Some of the most fun I've ever had was spending time with you guys at the first "Head First" bootcamp. That's also where I knit my first pair of socks (which Brian captured in the inset). I've been getting email this morning from people who said they didn't know I knit. I had no idea why this had suddenly come up until I read my morning blogs including yours.
(1) teaching mathematics is the most fun I've ever had and that's saying something. I've had a lot of magic jobs but being in a room with students is an excitement I will return to before I'm done.
(2) a) I miss radio and am working on getting back to it.
b) I've always wanted to see if I can write fiction but it scares me. I can reach and move people writing non-fiction - could I with fiction?
(3) a) I want to learn to draw to express myself there and want to improve telling short audio stories.
b) Ward Cunningham - where to start and how to proceed
(4) a) busy, messy (probably first on Kim's list), diverse
b) healthy, creative
(5) conversation, education, cooking
(6) If you knew your time was short, how would you spend it. Suppose you knew you had (a) a day, (b) a month, (c) a year, (d) a decade
Answer - I don't know but I've been thinking a lot about this this year.
Posted by: Daniel H Steinberg | Dec 31, 2006 7:15:00 AM
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
Haitao Liu. http://liuguo09.spaces.live.com/
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Blog in English with some unknown friends for a time. But since the website finally crashed, I quit.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Reading "the 21st Century" English newspaper every week.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Preparation for the final exam.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
Be better at programming.
Communicate more with my father since we haven't talked with each other for a long time.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
I wish to learn from W. Richard Stevens for his elegant programming and writing.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
reticent, honest, innocent
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
passionate, bold
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
Reading classic books.
Programming more and better.
Help my friends more.
6) Would you pursue a unrealistic dream?
For me, I would (miss a gril yy1984).
I really like reading your blog. Thank you!
Haitao from China
Posted by: haitao | Dec 31, 2006 7:19:17 AM
My name is Virginia and my answers are at my Web Teacher site.
Posted by: Virginia | Dec 31, 2006 8:03:00 AM
Oh, you throw the BEST parties, Kathy! (at least online)(actually, this is better than most of the holiday parties I attended this year...)
Here's my collection:
0) Name/site: John Windsor, http://youblog.typepad.com
1) Most fun work: Anything intensely creative -- acting/singing on Broadway, writing novels, the Flash course on presentations I created last year.
2) A. Wish I did again? Running marathons.
B. Keep putting off? Learning to play the piano.
3) A. Two things to learn/be better at? 1) Keep improving as a dad, because my kids deserve as good a start in life as I can give them. 2) Learn piano, or get back to a tap class, or both, because I LOVE music.
B. A class/workshop/apprentice with: Charlie Chaplin or Stan Freberg, because both were BRILLIANT, multifaceted, and had such a compelling way of skewering wrong-doers. (Freberg is still alive, but I don't think he's actively working.)
4) A. Three words: happy, outgoing, involved.
B. Two wish-list words: can't think of any...
5) Top three passions: my sons; creative endeavors; trying to make a difference.
6) One question YOU would ask: "What was the best day of your life (excluding epics like your wedding or the birth of a child), and why?"
My answer: My first trip to Paris, with my then-girlfriend (now wife). That first night was pure magic, roaming the damp, darkened streets; seeing sites that tourists rarely see; absorbing the amazing energy of such a fascinating city, with someone who opened up new worlds to me. (Ahh, I think I have to leave now...)
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?] (What a killer question! Hmm... How about: "If I could only do one thing in life, what would it be?")
Posted by: John Windsor | Dec 31, 2006 8:30:05 AM
For now, I'm skipping the ones that take more than a couple of minutes to think of anything for ... why waste the space and/or your time?
0) Keith Handy - http://www.keithhandy.com
1) Shooting a tongue-in-cheek video with some friends, because we all were on the same wavelength that day, and made the best use of what little we had to get it done.
2) A. I'm still an active musician, but since I've been out of school I never get a chance to play a real acoustic piano anymore.
B. Make my rock opera into a (mostly animated or "animated looking") film.
3) A. I'd like to learn to make GUIs for my C++ programs; I'd like to learn more about how to write code that uses other code and/or interacts with other software, as opposed to only writing stand-alone terminal apps from scratch.
B. ... *skip*
4) A. Creative, funny, moody.
B. Self-employed, well-known. (Maybe sexually active too!)
5) Music composition & recording/producing, generative art, the creative process in general.
6) ... *skip*
Bonus: ... *skip*
Posted by: Keith Handy | Dec 31, 2006 8:39:39 AM
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course): Michel Parisien, http://www.kriggs.ca/
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max): I learned to draw Japanese-style and made a manga in my last year of high school.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max): ...draw anime :)
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max): Go to the library, where I know there's just so much knowledge.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max): Public speaking, because I love to inspire people.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max): Any humanitarian president (or presidential candidate), because they have been to so many places and have heard from so many people.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?: Driven, idealistic, philanthropist.
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...: Outgoing, courageous.
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max): Software, anime, CUSEC (Shameless plug: http://2007.cusec.net/ Jan 18-20 2007 baby!).
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max): What would you do with 20 copies of yourself who all thought exactly as you do? I would change the world based on the principle of philanthropy.
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]: "What am I thinking?"
Jacob) When was the last time you let nature, art, or some other beautiful thing move you to tears? http://narcissu.insani.org/
Ron) Do you think the ultimate state of humanity is a state of sustainable joy or extinction? How does that change your sense of responsibility towards the future?: The ultimate state of humanity is responsible thoughtful teamwork in the pursuit of Gross National Happiness. I live this philosophy every day.
Kathryn) Why do you live where you live?: Because I grew up here. :)
John S) Have you ever actually thought about your beliefs, or did you just inherit them?: I've thought of them, and now believe differently than my parents.
Ryan) What have you regretted saying the most?: "No." Avoid saying anything that could rob you a chance to change your life for the better.
David) What will you do during 2007 to make life better for as many people on earth as possible?: I will question my previous beliefs.
Yonatan) What would you ask a hitchhiker?: "What is your story?"
Cab) If you could give up your job and do whatever you wanted to, what would you do?: If I had a lot of money, I would volunteer and give presentations. Otherwise, I would probably continue working in software.
Daniel) If you knew your time was short, how would you spend it?: While with most people, this question is inspiring, with me it is absolutely depressing. Even if I knew I was going to die, I would probably continue living my life as I am now.
Haitao) Would you pursue a unrealistic dream?: My logical mind says no, but my heart says yes.
John W) What was the best day of your life (excluding epics like your wedding or the birth of a child), and why?: Ignoring moments of being overwhelmed with love, the greatest day of my life was the first time I brought 30000 lines of untested code to life with a game GUI. It was my first real game, and it was absolutely addictive. I played it all day online with my friends.
Posted by: Michel Parisien | Dec 31, 2006 9:15:16 AM
I’m Patti Digh and my site is www.37days.typepad.com. My most fun work ever was working in the Morganton Burke Public Library when I was a teenager because I was surrounded by books and people asking me odd research questions. I used to make Polaroid image transfers and want to create a studio space in my house so I can do it again. I’ve always wanted to learn to fly, but I’m scared of birds, so I’m going to learn how to create stitched threadscapes and textile maps instead. I’d like to be a more natural cook, able to throw together dinner for a crowd without sweating and a complete reliance on recipes, and I’d like to learn to make daguerreotypes. I’d like to apprentice with Billy Collins just so I could listen to him read his poetry real slow. My friends would call me wise, funny, and generous; I wish I were athletic and well-rested. My passions are my two daughters and the man who made them possible, eliminating racism and other “isms”, and writing. The question I would ask others is “what would you be doing today if you only had 37 days to live?” My answer? I wouldn’t be on the computer, but outside with my family, exploring, talking, laughing, eating too much bread pudding. The auxiliary question is “why aren’t you doing that?” I wish people would ask themselves what they want to create and what they want to let go of…thanks for asking!
Posted by: patti digh | Dec 31, 2006 10:00:17 AM
I love how you've opened up this meme!
I'm Terrie Miller and my site is Critter Geek - http://crittergeek.com/. I posted the rest of the answers there. The question I'd like to ask of people? "If you could pick three animals to observe in their natural wild habitat for an extended period of time, what would they be?"
Posted by: Terrie Miller | Dec 31, 2006 11:13:43 AM
0) As above.
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
Living History Project; creating battle re-enactments for public performance and entertainment. Being paid to take weapons training, run around in costume and educate people on historical events just can't be beaten in my book.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did?
Horse Riding and Showjumping. I miss it because it was a passion and I don't do it because I haven't the time.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off?
Travel more and live overseas.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why?
Languages and linguistics because the possibilities and mysteries of human language excite me. Aikido - because I always enjoyed it and there is so much to it beyond the physical.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
Robert M. Pirsig - I believe that a lot can be learned from the philosophers of our time, the least part of which is how to write engagingly and beautifully.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Fun, focused, contrary
B. Now list two more words you wish described you?
Easygoing, quiet
5) What are your top three passions?
Reading, Travel and Food (in that order)
6) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone?
I would ask, "If you could know any one thing for certain: What would you want to know - and why?" My own answer would be, "I want to know for certain if no two snowflakes ever will be (or ever have been) the same. That level of infinite possibility is just so amazing."
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]
Each person should regularly ask themselves "What makes me happy?" (or "What would make me happy?") because just consciously acknowledging that there are things that make us happy and what those things are - leads toward a better path.
Posted by: Salubri | Dec 31, 2006 11:18:45 AM
Check out my post here. Great post, Kathy, and Happy New Year!!!!
Posted by: Carolyn | Dec 31, 2006 11:37:09 AM
0) Name and Website URL Joel J. http://tcepsa.livejournal.com
1) Most fun work I've ever done would probably have to be my current job as a web application designer because I am getting to interact with all sorts of incredibly fun and challenging aspects of the project from Javascript/DHTML to Database Design. It is especially great that I'm given enough freedom to fully engage my creativity and enough direction that I don't lose focus in the process.
2) A. One thing I did in the past that I no longer do but wish I did is pretend more; I used to make up these fantastic adventures with my friends, but I seem to have lost the knack for it (can't get my suspension of disbelief going as well as I used to be able to...)
2) B. One thing I've always wanted to do but keep putting off is write a book; it seems like it is one of those things that's reserved for Experts on Subjects of Great Importance, and Book Writers (plus the ever-popular "I don't have enough time" ;)
3) A. Two things I would most like to learn or be better at are music reading and playing on my instruments, and computer science/IT. Music because it is such a beautiful thing and I want to be able to create it and share it with others that they might experience some of the same feelings that it evokes in me, and computer science/IT because it has so many challenges and the better I get at it the more engaging the problems seem to become.
3) B. If I could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would I hope to learn? (I promise that I'm not just kissing up here...) I would want to take a class, workshop, or better yet, an apprenticeship with the Head First authors and team. I'd hope to learn more about all of the technologies that they are involved with, and about communicating not just the information of those technologies but the passion that they have for them.
4) A. Three words my best friends or family might use to describe me are enthusiastic, brilliant, and patient.
4) B. Two more words that I wish described me are socially confident.
5) My top three passions are creating, learning, and teaching
6) One additional question that I would ask someone is, "What is one more thing that you could be doing currently to move your life in the direction that you would like it to go?" My answer is that I could start taking some music lessons (which is currently a little bit terrifying because of how bad I think I am) and getting involved in some local technology groups.
Posted by: Joel J. | Dec 31, 2006 12:07:14 PM
0) Lynn Siprelle, TheNewHomemaker.com and OregonMediaInsiders.com
1) Best job ever was a year I did as news writer at KGW-TV in Portland, OR. All of the lovely writing news on deadline that I love, with none of the icky ratings responsibility, plus regular M-F 9-5 hours and a fabulous cafeteria.
2) A. I used to be able to sing beautifully; heart medication ruined my voice (ACE inhibitors) and I'm still trying to get it back.
B. I keep meaning to learn how to use a real live loom and haven't done it yet.
3) A. I want to learn more about herbal medicine and homeopathy, and I would love to learn real knife skills--cooking-wise, that is.
B. If I were physically stronger/younger, I'd love to apprentice to Ianto Evans, who's a cob house builder here in Oregon. Being me with my current age/strength, I'd take an apprenticeship with Priscilla Gibson-Roberts, the master knitter/spinner.
4) A. Funny, smart, loving.
B. Brave and strong.
5) Writing, fiber arts and mothering.
6) What do you hope to teach others? I hope to teach people that they are the authorities for their own lives. They can, and must, learn from others but ultimately they have to listen for the still small voice inside themselves, and depend on that.
Bonus: What can I do to make things easier for the next guy--from the next person in line to the next person in my job, all the way to the children who come after me? (Full confession: It's my husband's question, and now you know why I married him.)
Posted by: Lynn S. | Dec 31, 2006 1:10:51 PM
My answers:
http://managetochange.typepad.com/main/2006/12/creating_passio.html
Happy New Year, Kathy!
Posted by: ann michael | Dec 31, 2006 1:11:32 PM
0) Currently no website or blog to point to.
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
Work as in employment? My current job as a Content Manager.
Work as in building something? Theatre performances I put on and/or coached.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did?
Writing in my spare time.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off?
Write a book, travel, be fit (probably all at the same time)
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why?
Writing and directing because the endorphine buzz of creation is just incredible - and I hope to have to offer something to the world.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
A Creativity/Writing/Teaching workshop with Douglas Adams, Terry Pratchett, Robin Williams, Keith Johnstonen, and the Head First team.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
friendly, intelligent, creative
B. Now list two more words you wish described you?
disciplined, fit
5) What are your top three passions?
Creating, Learning, People
6) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone?
It would be more of a discussion, a mutual exploration based on the question: Please describe honestly what is going on in your mind.
I'm constantly talking to myself, hearing sound bites of music or TV shows in my head, seeing all kinds of pictures in my head. Is this normal? Do you work the same way?
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]
Am I seriously wanting to do this?
Posted by: Jens | Dec 31, 2006 3:56:18 PM
On a total tangent, I once read that at parties in America, people ask you "what do you do for a living?" to find out about you and your "placement" in society. In most other countries, they ask you about your family first for the same reasons...
Posted by: Spike | Dec 31, 2006 4:29:33 PM
Riding at the skate park? RAD! SUPER RAD!
No wonder you're so cool and passionate ... you've always been =)
Posted by: Ted Rheingold | Dec 31, 2006 5:32:36 PM
0) Pete "TCSM" Wailes. http://www.thecommonsensemarketer.com
1) Contracting as a website marketer (online and offline) or as a writer on how to market websites. Both have been/are awesome.
2) Contracting - I now work for an agency, but I miss going to work in a dressing gown with proper coffee.
B. Paraglide.
3) Ballroom dancing, because every gentleman should know how to, and drawing, because I want to be able to draw a good portrait of my partner.
B. Learning how to compose, with Mozart.
4) Intelligent, logical, passionate.
B. Gentlemanly, honourable. They may describe me now, but I can't really say. It's for others to decide.
5) Music, marketing, people.
6) After their life is done, what their greatest achievements were, in their minds. What to them, after all was said and done, mattered the most. And I can't answer it as I'm not there yet, but thus far, making a difference in people's lives, financially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Posted by: Pete Wailes | Dec 31, 2006 5:50:40 PM
0) My name's Tiara and my list of websites is at http://claimid.com/divabat .
1) Everything I've done with Up With People, whether in their tour group or on stage or as a volunteer in the office. Great atmosphere, wonderful and lovely people, and more than I can fit in two sentences!
2) A. Go on a study abroad tour! I'd love to do it again at some point though.
B. Actually start on getting a youth center/network set up!
3) A. i. Nonprofit management, it's something I'm quite interested in and would like to explore further.
ii. Gymnastics! I've wanted to be a gymnast but never got the chance to learn. Can't even tumble properly.
B. I'd like to learn about combining media with world-changing from Oprah Winfrey, she seems to know what she's doing!
4) A. Loud, energetic, creative
B. Strong, focused
5) Alternative education, creativity, people getting along with each other.
6) What is your dream? Mine is to see a world where people get to explore what makes them happy.
Posted by: Tiara | Dec 31, 2006 7:50:42 PM
Juan (at) Global-culture.org
Most fun: Get involved in a dance company. Yes, dancing.
Should try again: Wake up at 5:30am for a 10k run.
Want to learn: Cultural Anthropology is the latest coolest career I've discovered that actually matches my passion as a blogger. I could use some Journalism lessons too.
Learn from: Sebastiao Salgado. He can see humans in a way that most of us have learned to ignore.
3 ways to describe me: committed, optimist, happy.
3 passions: How to use new technologies to advance social causes. My current project is about defining our Global Culture and analyzing the factors that influence it.
Posted by: Juan Gonzalez | Dec 31, 2006 10:43:29 PM
0) What's your name and website URL?
Brett (but I use Bdidi on my web stuff) - desultoration.blogspot.com
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
leading a group of 17/18 year olds on a 25 km trek through snow to the top of Mt Kosciuszko - great conversations on the way, great scenery, and great to get to the end of.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did?
Writing fiction.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off?
My masters degree.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why?
1. Dancing - it looks like it would be fun, and I get tired of standing off to the side making idle chitchat; 2. a foreign language, but fluently.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
Any top notch chef - I'm becoming more and more obsessed with good food every day.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
I asked! Talented, stroppy (my wife's first response), creative
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
insightful, decisive
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
my children; music; teaching.
6) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? - I'd ban politicians everywhere!
Posted by: Bdidi | Jan 1, 2007 5:17:16 AM
What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
My name is Chris Brogan, and my site is http://network2.tv
1) I am a community developer for Network2 and Video on the Net, which means my job is to grow relationships through events, interaction, and participation. How can you top that?
2) I haven't been trail running in a while.
B. I'd like to get back to trail running this year.
3) I'd like to be better at Final Cut Pro and Digital SLRs because they relate to my videoblogging work.
B. I'd love to learn audio processing from Daniel Steinberg.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
5) My top 3 passions are people/relationships, technology that strengthens these, and self-improvement.
6) How will you contribute back to your community when it comes your time to do so?
Posted by: Chris Brogan... | Jan 1, 2007 9:22:42 AM
1) Favourite work? I love all my work. Top spot either has to be spending a month in the Falklands for C&W (great people, great scenery) or the time I spent working for GCHQ when I was on student sponsorship.
2) A. I used to play poker quite well. I'd like to get back into tournament games.
B. I've always wanted to learn how to fly and how to sail, but never get around to it. This year, I hope.
3) A. I'd love to learn a musical instrument, and I wish I was better at cooking from scratch. I like being creative, and these feel like they would be good outlets.
B. I'd take an apprenticeship with Leonardo da Vinci. I'd want to learn about the creative process and how he came up with all those ideas, so meticulously recorded in his notebooks.
4) A. My friends and family would probably describe me as being: intelligent, witty, focused.
B. I wish I could be described as methodical and a grafter.
5) Top three passions are: literature, and high-quality non-fiction (good books basically); software development; philosophy; politics; art. Ok, so it's five, but I couldn't split them. Sue me.
6) If you had seven days to live, how would you spend them? I would tell the people I love that I love them, the people I hate that I forgive them, the people I don't know that I wish I did.
Bonus: What really, really matters to me and what am I doing about it every day of my life?
Posted by: Paul Robinson | Jan 1, 2007 9:57:52 AM
All of these replies are so thought-provoking and honest, what a great way to get to know everyone!
0) Name and website URL withheld to protect the innocent
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Probably Flash promos for our new software. They're addictive and consuming to create, but when 400 potential-users applaud the results and get excited to use the new software, it's the apex.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Manual artwork - painting, drawing, beadwork, photography
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Truly learn programming languages past the "Hello World" phase.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
Playing guitar, learn to speak & understand Ojibwe (my dad's native language)
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
This one has me stumped - there are too many to list!
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Upbeat, honest, devoted
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Not-naive, environmentalist
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
My family, my heritage, creativity
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
I'm stumped on this one too, guess I'm not as good at asking questions than I am at answering them. This is something else I want to work on!
Bonus Question: I would want people to ask themselves, "How will what I am doing today affect people and the Earth in the future?"
Kathy, are you going to answer these for us? :-)
Posted by: Lana B. | Jan 1, 2007 10:03:35 AM
0) What's your name and website URL?
Peter, website coming soon.
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
Being my own boss for a decade now.
2A) Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did?
Running
2B) Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off?
Basecamp ( not the climb ) of K2, Everest. The Alpes are cool but this tha sh*t.
Just being there would give me shivers. It's a time and money problem.
3A) What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why?
1. Actual design. I am a programmer so to create something new is very hard.
Would love to learn to do a better job so I am able to do both.
2. To get a motorcycle license alltough I am better off without one ;-))
3B) If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
Easy one. Einstein.
To be able to pick his brain and being in the same room is enough.
4A) What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Humor, generous, determination
4B) Always willing to help out.
5) Ruby, gaming, extreme sports. I am an Aries so I love that stuff.
6) Based on the row one of my neigbors are having I would say:
What could make people getting to like each other better?
Maybe in conversation we could listen, think and then answer.
Instead of the other way around.
Happy New Year from the Netherlands JavaGirl.
Posted by: Peter | Jan 1, 2007 12:41:29 PM
0) My name is Jill and my website it www.knilli.wordpress.com.
1) What I'm doing right now, being a reference librarian. I get to help people find the information they need!
2) A. I wish I were playing piano or violin on a regular basis.
B. I want to fit regular exercise into my schedule because it's good for my mental and physical health.
3) A. I would like to learn how to better deal with difficult people. I can deal with customers/patrons but don't always effectively deal with those who affect me on a more personal level.
B. I would like to take a workshop with Kaffe Fassett because he's fearless in his creations.
4) A. Quiet, hardworking, busy.
B. Innovative and exciting.
5) My top three passions are knitting, reference librarianship, and reading, not necessarily in that order.
6) If you could snap your fingers and change your life right now, would you, and why? No, because I feel that I'm doing what I should be at this moment in my life.
Bonus: Are you really presenting yourself to the world in the way you see yourself?
Posted by: Jill | Jan 1, 2007 1:34:56 PM
I'm going to be a bit rude here: I will happily answer your questions once you answer them yourself.
You first.
Posted by: Ian Welsh | Jan 1, 2007 2:22:08 PM
I only have time for a couple, since my family is leaving to visit my son's orphanage in Guatemala tomorrow. The orphanage where he works, I should say :-)
0) What's your name and website URL?
Cyndi, 3 art websites and 2 art blogs...Mazel Tov! Jewelry Treasures is a good representative.
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? Doing what I'm currently doing: working as an artist, being paid to do and to write about what I'm passionate about.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? Marathon, if I could just get my bones to stop breaking!
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? Learn to draw well. But I guess I don't really want to learn, or I'd have done it...this would be a really easy one in comparison to the next answer:
3)B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? Mother Teresa. I'd like to learn to fully love the un-lovely and develop a more dedicated servant's heart.
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?] What was I put on this earth to accomplish? Not in general, but specifically.
Posted by: Cyndi L | Jan 1, 2007 2:45:19 PM
Answers are at: http://22panels.com/answering-kathy-sierras-questions/
Posted by: Joachim Klehe | Jan 1, 2007 3:49:12 PM
My crack at it :)
Posted by: Matthew Allen | Jan 1, 2007 4:46:22 PM
0) What's your name and website URL? (optional, of course)
Giles Bowkett, blog = gilesbowkett.blogspot.com, portfolio = gilesgoatboy.org
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
The job I was most excited to get was writing an Idees Fortes piece for Wired, back when they still featured novelists on their covers, instead of CEOs. I thought I was going to change the world. (I was 20.)
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Throw nightclub parties, and raves.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Learn to play the drums
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
Drums, and acting; if I could play drums well, I could drive algorithmic composition software via the drums over MIDI, it would be insanely cool, and acting, acting is actually incredibly difficult.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
Leonardo da Vinci, on creativity
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Brilliant, insane, adventurous
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Thin, billionaire
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
Movies, music, and travel
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
Now? Or not? And if not now, when?
Posted by: Giles Bowkett | Jan 1, 2007 8:23:51 PM
0) Allen Arnn allentexas.blogspot.com and www.thearnnfive.com/blog
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Organizing/infrastructuring/implementing Hurricane Katrina Relief efforts and other exciting projects
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Play the piano
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Get an MBA
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
Better at reaching into people and pulling out greatness - because everyone has such potential
Better at selling ideas - so that my impact can increase
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
hmmm... hard one...
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
thinker, grounded, reserved
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
fun, charming
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
making things better, assisting in racial reconciliation wherever I can, encouraging people
6) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
What is your purpose in 11 words or less? Answer: To enable people and organizations to create and deliver excellence
[Bonus: What is one question you wish people would ask themselves?]
"What can I do for others today?"
Posted by: Allen Arnn | Jan 1, 2007 11:20:54 PM
Stephanie Bogue Kerr- http://idreamofkimchee.blogspot.com
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
1) Best job- teaching rollerblading in the summer. I had a great tan and was really in shape!
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
2)a - I wish I still did gymnastics and dance.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
2)B - I've always wanted to explore Northern Canada.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
3) I want to learn a third language and play guitar.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
4) William Shakespeare - I would just want to listen to him talk and contemplate how he wrote some of the greatest stories ever told.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
5) Strong, curious, outspoken
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
6) Warm and caring
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
Acting, writing and running
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
Where have you always wanted to visit and why?
I have always wanted to travel through Egypt. I want to stand in front of the pyramids and allow myself to be hit by the history...
Thanks for setting up a great site- I really enjoyed checking it out!
Posted by: Stephanie | Jan 1, 2007 11:41:44 PM
0)Karyn Romeis http://karynromeis.blogspot.com
1) Years and years ago, I organised a fun run for the council. I was only 23 and totally ignorant, but I had a lot of support from experts, was given unprecedented freedom to do as I pleased and wound up winning a national award!
2) A. Knitting - complicated Kaffe Fassett creations or Arans. This was what I used to do while watching telly, but now I do the ironing. Groan!
B. Play the part of Golde in Fiddler on the Roof.
3) A. I would like to learn to be more disciplined about my diet/exercise regime. I used to be quite good at this until I added an MA course to my schedule and found myself caught in the no-time-for-anything whirlpool.
B. I would like to learn serenity from anyone who could impart depth to a hummingbird like me.
4) A. Loud. Loud. Loud.
B. Wise. Deep.
5) Faith. Learning. Singing.
6) What is the most valuable skill you possess? I don't know what the answer is to this question in my own case. I am often assailed with self-doubt - particularly at this time of year. Possibly the ability to see things from someone else's perspective...
Bonus: What matters most?
Posted by: Karyn Romeis | Jan 2, 2007 2:03:55 AM
0) Chris Korhonen, http://sourcebottle.net
1) Completing a big project, then a few months later walking thought an airport and seeing some of the results. It gave me a warm and fuzzy 'I made that' kind of feeling.
2) a) I miss working in a bar, it was relaxing and you met all sorts of interesting people.
b) I always put off going to the gym with my friend, not because I don't want to, but because there never seems to be enough time.
3) a) Learn to play the guitar and get better at a foreign language, I'm specifically thinking Spanish.
b) This is such a tough question, because there are so many people who I would like to learn something from, its hard to pin down a specific person or topic. I actually posed this one to some friends the other day, in the pub, the first response was "Anyone in the world? Its gotta be someone for sex hasn't it?". I'm not sure what that says about my friends, who would rather spend an evening with Scarlett Johannsen than explore quantum physics with Einstein or talk philosophy with Plato. Anyway, going to have to pass on this one.
4. a) Intelligent, Confident, Relaxed
b) Funny (ha ha), Sexy ;)
5) Interaction (how do people interact with machines? How can we make this better?), Music and Travel.
6) What makes you smile? Other people smiling.
Bonus Question:
Do I mean what I'm about to say? Do I believe in it?
Posted by: Chris Korhonen | Jan 2, 2007 4:01:05 AM
Hi Kathy,
Great post... I have posted my answers on my blog, http://blog.cybercreations.net
Love the blog... keep up the good work
Posted by: Derek | Jan 2, 2007 7:09:56 AM
I just wanted to add (for the benefit of the uninitiated) that "trucks" are the part of the skateboard that the wheels are attached to, and not a euphemism for some part of the anatomy.
Happy New Year
Posted by: Kiaser Zohsay | Jan 2, 2007 7:53:04 AM
0) www.greenbowlingball.blogspot.com
1) Anything that involves leading people, a new business of mine is one, my eagle scout project another.
2) A. Juggle
B. Visit italy
3) A. Making Animated movies, it's my passion, treating people better
B. Leonardo Da Vinci a class on creative thinking
4) A. funny, intense, aware
B. contagiously perfect,
5) People creativity movies
6) What worries you the most?
Not accomplishing anything.
Bonus) Am I contributing to Joy in the world?
Posted by: Grendly | Jan 2, 2007 8:36:58 AM
1) programming; I like to solve problems
2) a) study Go
b) sky-dive
3) a) boxing and knitting
b) the late Zen master Dogen Zenji: to learn what "time being" really means
4) a) kind, quiet, smart
b) honest, industrious
5) photography, music, Buddhism
6) "What do you enjoy about living?" answer: people
bonus: "Am I understanding their actions/statements on their terms, or on mine?"
Posted by: JimDesu | Jan 2, 2007 11:02:40 AM
0) Jeanne Kramer-Smyth: http://www.spellboundblog.com
1) Building software - solving big problems and puzzles with a team of really smart people who are willing to consider all options before making their decisions.
2) A. Glass flameworking (making objects like those shown here: http://jeanne.smugmug.com/gallery/7802 )
B. Write a book.
3) A. Cooking & planning for cooking. My family spends way too much time and money eating out - and I would like to learn enough about cooking and planning for it to change that.
B. I would love to learn sculptural mold making and casting from my grandfather. He was a manikin maker by trade (and a sculptor by choice)and I never got to meet him.
4) A. Caring, passionate and ambitious.
B. Relaxed and Focused
5) * Helping others find what they need to achieve their goals.
* Learning new things.
* Creating (websites, jewelry, photos, glass art...)
6) How do you turn a bad/sad day around? I actively look around me to consider all the ways my life is great.
Posted by: Jeanne | Jan 2, 2007 12:12:03 PM
0)Jay.
Full name - jayasankar peethambaran ( http://thinkndmuse.blogspot.com/ )
---------------------------------------------------------
1)
(a)Last year, wrote a small 20 line program which created input for a screenstuffer to key transactions in.
(b)A lot of 'experts' said it could not be done.It was important that we did it for the success of our BEEG NASTY IMPLEMENTATION project. I was on an emotional high for about 5 weeks after this.
----------------------------------------------------------.
2) Play chess with dad.
B. Learn Kalaripayittu (a martial art from Kerala , my part of India)
----------------------------------------------------------
3) A. Programming. Eventhough I do it for my living, frankly am not that good at it. Esp. learn things outside proprietary oracle stuff...just for the heck of it.
Economics. Read, nah learn Smith,Friedman,Sen...just for the heck of it.
Learn to play the keyboard.
B. Possibly Robert Pirsig. What he calls 'value quietness'.
----------------------------------------------------------
4) A.
Friends:- (a bit) Queer. (too?)well read. Fun--to--be--with--but--can--be--pain--in--the--butt--sometimes.
Family:- Smart. A bit Irreverent. Caring.
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Caring.Passionate.
----------------------------------------------------------
5) Economics. I wanted to major in economics but due to economic (:-)) reasons, did not.
Technology.
Writing. (esp sports writing).
----------------------------------------------------------
6) How did you find the work that you fell in love with (if you have)?
---------------------------------------------------------
Posted by: Jay | Jan 2, 2007 12:12:53 PM
0) David Sandey - No Current URL Flickr stream instead http://www.flickr.com/photos/sandey-family/
1) No one specific project more a category. A challenging project with a clearly defined end-state and time, working with people who know how to goof off while being creative and getting work done.
2) A) Archery, moving and life got in the way and I never seemed to find the time to pick it back up.
B) I have always wanted to explore Asia.
3) A) To write and express what's really going on in my head. Writing is something that when I do it I (mostly) enjoy it but get really frustrated becauase I know I could be doing a much better job of it and enjoying it more because I am less frustrated.
B) Jesus. I'd love to apprentice from the guy that I believe knew more about being a good person than anyone else before or since.
4) A) Loving, Integrity, and Odd.
B) Passionate, Gracious
5) My Kids - they ROCK! and I love them to bits.
My marriage - It's currently great and I want to keep it that way.
My faith in God - It's that deep down thing that drives me as a person.
6) What are you most proud of in your life achievement , strength, or other...?
Achievement:Failing Teacher Training (it took a lot of effort to fail rather than drop out). Other: My Kids, they are beautiful and wonderful and keep me on my toes.
Bonus: What are your strengths and do you play them?
Posted by: David | Jan 2, 2007 12:52:34 PM
0) Garam Chai garamchai.frivologs.com
1) A. Regulating traffic at university events during my grad student days. It was fun to be working outdoors and helping people and not having to worry about work after the event ended.
2) A. See 1) A. above
B. Applying for a job at United Nations (or a related organization). Keep postponing 'coz their online résumé submission forms are intimidating.
3) A. I would like to learn to play a musical instrument and would like to get better at following my heart.
B. Do Romeo and Juliet count?!
4) A. helpful, dependable, practical
B. superman
5) A. social work, software development, photography
6. What do you think of global warming? (hoping for this answer: no, it is not real. our planet is safer now than ever.)
Posted by: Garam Chai | Jan 2, 2007 4:47:22 PM
My answers are provided at my blog: http://theschaefers.org/wordpress/?p=4
Posted by: Ken Schaefer | Jan 2, 2007 9:36:31 PM
0) What's your name and website URL? Gray Miller; http://satorimedia.typepad.com
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Producing and performing dance works involving technology and the internet. It was cutting edge, it was artistically satisfying, and I felt COOL.
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? Contact Improv Dance.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? Learn to program Flash.
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? I would like to be better at aikido, as I'm currently a spotty practitioner at best. I would also like to be able to play my guitar bluegrass style.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? I would like to study commedia dell'arte from Dario Fo. In Italy.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Busy. Intense. Funny
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Relaxed. Carefree.
5) What are your top three passions? Podcasting. Fetish performance art. Writing.
6) What is the one obstacle you are most proud of overcoming in your life?
I've managed to raise two of my four daughters into productive and independent adults, and the last two are almost there.
Posted by: Gray | Jan 3, 2007 7:46:05 AM
0) Scott St. John | www.scottah.com
1) The most fun was building web sites in 1994 when the Internet was just starting
to take off. There was such an excitement and magic to it, anyone remember the
night that Netscape 'expired' and we were all trying to download it?
2)
A - Program a radio station, but not sure I would do it again.
B - Learn wood working
3)
A - Be a better designer and be able to take the ideas and designs in my head
and actually create them.
B - Norm Abram, New Yankee Workshop and be a master craftsman.
4)
A - Sensitive, caring, humorous
B - Reliable, laser sharp focus
5) Family, outdoors, computers
6)
Q - What motivates you to get out of bed in the morning?
A - New challenges and I do a radio show so I *have* to get out of bed early :)
Posted by: Scott St. John | Jan 4, 2007 2:38:22 PM
http://www.datawebtect.com/wordpress/2007/01/05/five-things-that-matter/
Posted by: Muthu | Jan 5, 2007 4:17:41 PM
Hi Kathy, great post!! I answered your questions here on my blog. Cheers!
Posted by: Jef Cumps | Jan 6, 2007 5:25:39 AM
1.The most fun thing I've ever done is trek on the mountain hills with my friends. Its a great bonding experience and it helps you rejuvenate from daily stress.
2. A)Hang out with friends in the college canteen after college hours. Obviously I can't do that now since I've become a full time IT professional.
B)Learn Guitar.
3.A) Swimming and Scheme programming.
B) Steve Jobs and learn to build an industry everybody is passionate about.
4.A) Funny, kind and trustworthy.
B) Genius, Stylish.
5. Programming, Reading, Gym.
6. What do you do to keep the fire in your passion alive ?
Posted by: Anup Jadhav | Jan 6, 2007 8:10:12 AM
This is a really interesting exercise, it's not something you can dash off in 5 minutes!
0) Rosemary Warren http://rwarren.150m.com
1) I used to write about Canadian phonecards for an American magazine. I enjoyed doing it because I felt I was helping to document the history of cards being issued by even the smallest companies.
2A) I used to dance by myself in my bedroom.
B. Classifying and filing the big heap of phonecards and smart cards in the dining room.
3A) I would like to learn how to be more persuasive, so that I can convince others when necessary of my point of view.
I like cake decorating but I don't feel I'm very good at it, so I want to improve that -- it's one of my few creative outlets.
B. I know what I want to learn but I don't know who the ideal teacher would be. I would like to know how to walk into a room and be the center of attention -- without compromising my values, appearing cheap, or being ridiculed.
4A) obsessive, naive, stubborn
B. pretty, popular
5) I believe in helping companies and people make the most of their hardware and software investments.
I love someone who has great difficulty loving me back -- and 14 years later, I still believe our relationship can work.
I love good food, both the cooking and the eating -- if you obsess about every little calorie and potential unhealthiness you're consuming, you're not enjoying your dinner anymore.
6) What do you do in your spare time?
I read just about evrything I can get my hands on.
I collect phone/smart cards, I decorate cakes, and I like to travel.
Bonus: Why do you give up on the things and people you believe in?
Posted by: Rosemary | Jan 11, 2007 8:39:34 PM
0 - Marilyn / http://marilyn.typepad.com/california_fever/
1 - event organization - Because I'm an organizational whiz and get my rocks off by multi-tasking like a dickens.
2A - stage manage
2B - study photography
3A - how to design a website, how to stop watching mindless TV
3B - Barack Obama - I'd want to learn how to listen objectively and then act passionately.
4A - smart, witty, caring
4B - (good) listener, (more) active
5 - blogging, Darfur, taking small actions to make a difference in even one life
6 - If you had to move to another country today, sight unseen, which would you pick? Portugal
Bonus - How would *I* feel if someone did/said that to me?
Posted by: Marilyn | Jan 14, 2007 4:29:35 PM
(hi, long time lurker, not very long blogger)
0) Just call me The Mad Engineer. URL is linked above.
1) What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why? (two sentences max)
Mucking around in the wetlands and integrating it with handheld technology (at the time, the most sophisticated thing was Palm Pilots) in order to see how well a job reverting some farmland back to a wetland was. Oh, and then presenting this to teachers in attempts to get them to use more technology integrated curriculums (with varying success).
2) A. Name one thing you did in the past that you no longer do but wish you did? (one sentence max)
Track and field, I miss high jumping something terrible.
B. Name one thing you've always wanted to do but keep putting it off? (one sentence max)
Graduating college (har har).
3) A. What two things would you most like to learn or be better at, and why? (two sentences max)
I'd like to learn to play piano because I think it would be something beautiful to put in the world. The other thing I would like is to be better at reading Latin, because it makes French and Spanish easier to keep up with.
B. If you could take a class/workshop/apprentice from anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and what would you hope to learn? (two more sentences, max)
Leonardo Da Vinci. And I would want to learn everything he was willing to teach, to be honest.
4) A. What three words might your best friends or family use to describe you?
Stubborn, Loyal, Adaptive.
B. Now list two more words you wish described you...
Wise, Tactful.
5) What are your top three passions? (can be current or past, work, hobbies, or causes-- three sentences max)
I love to learn, and I wish I could just sit around all day and soak up knowledge. I really love to write, exchange ideas, make people think. But what I love most is to teach, because that's the best way to learn out there.
6) (sue me) Write--and answer--one more question that YOU would ask someone (with answer in three sentences max)
What makes you happy?
People.
Posted by: The Mad Engineer | Jan 15, 2007 12:18:00 AM
What's the most fun work you've ever done, and why?
Posted by: 三洋伺服 | Jan 24, 2007 11:05:15 AM
Hello to passionate creator,
First a search result that kept appearing in one of my seraches finaly got my attention, so to please, let me note a couple of tracks back to why or how I got here:
.1st) http://www.typepad.com/t/trackback/7353700
from that page this was the link that linked to this page - my 2nd trackback to here): http://www.typepad.com/t/trackback/7343643
Okay , given the time that has passed since this page was posted -I hope my post is helpful-that is I may not be able to answer all of the questions and find i'm more eager to ask this-
I was approached by a student the other day doing a survey who asked me -three questions -
1)"what do/ or will\ you remember about me most?
2)when was the last time you cut your hair?
3) do you think people work harder today than they did 50 years ago? (yes or no)--after some thought-(okay you may add a comment if you want , along with the "yes or no")
Thanks Kathy, I dont know you, and this seems awkward to even comment given the little time i've learned about blogging.
A book you ask?
Okay- The Goal by E Goldratt
Posted by: O.S.2u | Jul 5, 2007 9:20:37 PM
