Ask HN: What skills are worth obsessive focus for an unshakable future?

5•cookies2eat•1d ago

I’m at a point where I’m willing to commit completely to mastering one skill — even if it means sacrificing balance temporarily (long hours, minimal rest, limited social life).

I’m looking for skills where deep, obsessive focus can lead to an unshakable and sustainable future — financially, intellectually, or in terms of independence.

If you were starting over today with this mindset, what would you master? Bonus points for sharing books, lectures, or structured learning paths that helped you get there.

Comments

smt88•1d ago

The most reasonable answer is "people skills," and you can only learn them through practice, intellectual humility, and open-mindedness. I haven't yet found a book that substitutes for real relationships.

cookies2eat•1d ago

Well said, Some are really lucky enough to get it naturally by birth.

BOOSTERHIDROGEN•22h ago

What does it mean by substitutes? Could you illustrate using a book you read about relationships but then were disappointed by?

smt88•6h ago

I mean that you can't learn how to manage, negotiate, change minds, make friends, etc. from reading books about those things. It takes practice. You need to meet and try to understand a lot of different people.

gladiatr72•1d ago

plumbing

smt88•1d ago

Electrical and carpentry seem to be pretty safe too

cookies2eat•23h ago

Sure, Any books or video guide suggestions please.

smt88•6h ago

There are tons of trade schools and certification programs you can join for these. It just depends on where you live. You take some classes and then often will get an apprenticeship.

cookies2eat•23h ago

Sure I wanted to learn, Any books or video guide suggestions please.

sxzygz•1d ago

If you’re a proper, native American, given the specificity and nature of the question you are asking, you should aim towards marrying into the Trump family. Be warned, however, that there is too much temptation to be drawn away from this path from vices such as reflection, compassion, and humility.

cookies2eat•23h ago

OMG!! No way.

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Ask HN: What skills are worth obsessive focus for an unshakable future?

Comments

Tetrapod Lamp

Asahi Linux Progress Report for Linux 6.17

Show HN: Inspec – Specification scheduling software for interior designers

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Would you trust AI to find real estate for you to buy or rent?

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