I think my relative success comes down to one basic thing: When I learn new things, I focus on essentials first, and always. I gain normal skill like anyone, but I do feel like I retain the essentials better than the next hacker. I can't recall a time I've ever said, "oh, I used to know _____ but it's been too long." I've always been able to get back into old saddles. It's been like this most of my 25 years in the industry.