Jeff Atwood has an interesting post, starting from some quotes from Bill Gates, on how to become a better programmer by not programming (yes, you read that right). It’s worth reading the whole thing, but here’s my spin on his bottom line: even if you have the skills and aptitude (of course, many don’t), what you need to get to the next level is not just more of the same, but an understanding of users and their problems, and a passion for solutions.
To me, this is just another application of one of Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits, Sharpen the Saw. At some point, more sawing doesn’t make you more productive: you’ve got to step back and think more broadly about what you’re doing and how to make it more productive (which might include going down to the hardware store for one of those new-fangled gas chain saws!).
(Hat tip to Jeremy Zawodny for the link)