Today, I’d like to share with you two true gems that I think are very sadly under-used or unknown by people in the “real world.” The two ideas are near & dear to me because they have their origins in my home turf, the world of computer geeks and science fiction.

First, you should know Godwin’s Law. It states that the longer a discussion continues, the more likely it becomes that someone will make a comparison with Hitler or Nazis. Seems simple, but knowing the law can be really helpful in avoiding use of inflammatory or irrelevant comparisons when you’re having a discussion. Perhaps more importantly is the common addition to Godwin’s Law; the first person to use Hitler or Nazis in a debate automatically loses. Simple, effective, beautiful

Secondly, you should know the word grok. The word has it’s origin in a sci-fi novel (it’s a Martian word) and literally means “to drink” but more practically means “to deeply understand” or “to be one with.” When you grok something, you not only know what it means, you have a deep, natural connection with it. Not only is it slightly poetic, but can be quite practical at too. When you read a book the first time you may know what the author is saying, but it’s not until you spend time re-reading and thinking about what they’re saying that you can truly begin to grok the author’s work.

So, what are your hidden gems? Have you ever found yourself in a conversation but didn’t use a specific word or idea because the people you’re talking with probably won’t know what the heck you’re talking about? Share the joy, share the wisdom! I’m sure computer-science isn’t the only field that has it’s own great ideas.