“Best practices” — two words that are supposed to make you feel safe. But are they always the safest choice?
In software, following “what’s recommended” without questioning the context can lead to bloated solutions, slower systems, and missed opportunities. A best practice is only “best” if it fits your specific constraints, not just because it worked for someone else five years ago.
Tech Insight: Challenging the Myth of Universality
When designing systems, it’s tempting to blindly apply established methods — layered architectures, strict microservices, heavyweight frameworks.
But context matters:
- In a small team, a clean monolith might outperform microservices.
- In a high-frequency trading app, performance often matters more than code purity.
- In a prototype, shipping fast might outweigh designing the “perfect” system.
“Best” must always be redefined by your current needs, resources, and risks. Otherwise, you’re just adding complexity for complexity’s sake.
Leadership Lesson: Beware of Cargo Cults
Strong technical leadership doesn’t blindly follow trends.
It requires asking uncomfortable questions:
- Why are we doing it this way?
- Is this really helping us succeed?
Sometimes real leadership means breaking from tradition and choosing the path that actually serves your mission — not your comfort zone.
Life Tip: Choose What Fits Your Journey
Not every “life hack” or “rule for success” is made for you.
Someone else’s morning routine, productivity system, or career advice might clash with your values, not enhance them.
Be a student, but not a blind follower.
The best practice is the one you adapt — not the one you copy.
Where in your work or life are you following a best practice because it’s “the rule” and not because it fits any purpose?