I rarely comment on articles but this resonates so strongly with me. It goes beyond the pervasive “imposter syndrome”, and I think the point here ought to be emphasized. Nobody knows what they’re doing, so throw out the perceived deference and join them with full confidence and determination.

Anecdotal self promotion: I grew up doing manual labor (digging holes) and whatnot thinking that the AP kids had their shit together. Same once I started AP thinking about college. Then grad school in Aero engineering. Then real aero engineers. Then real software engineers once I transitioned into true software in ad tech. TLDR even when surrounded by ridiculously smart people and out of your depth, I find that holding back because “they must know what they’re talking about” is an unproductive mindset. It must be universal, and I actually find that to be an encouraging fact. People aren’t predestined to their task and even as a noob to a field or discipline, you may have valid insight.