This week’s readings from Donald A. Norman, including “Emotions and Attractive” and “Her Code Got Humans on the Moon—And Invented Software Itself,” resonated with me and left me with some valuable insights. On one hand, the story of Margret Hamilton stands out as an inspiring example, not just for me, but for countless young women aspiring to make their mark in a predominantly male-dominated field. Her journey began without a clear goal or ulterior motive, yet it ultimately led to the creation of software that played a pivotal role in the Apollo missions at NASA, laying the foundation for modern computer software. Her story embodies the timeless principle of “just do it.”
Sometimes, self-doubt can creep in when we feel we’re not good enough or lack a full grasp of the subject matter. We might question whether we truly belong in certain spaces, especially when we don’t see others who look like us or have similar backgrounds. However, Hamilton’s remarkable journey serves as a powerful reminder that we can carve our own path and enter spaces we aspire to be in, regardless of the current occupants. You never know who might be watching or following in your footsteps.
Her journey, from starting something with no clear plan to creating an industry worth $400 billion, illustrates the incredible results that can emerge from hard work and dedication. This also connects with Norman’s readings because Hamilton didn’t create something for the sake of it; her work was both functional and aesthetically appealing, leaving an indelible mark on history. It emphasizes that our focus should not solely be on usability or aesthetics but on striking a balance with intention and purpose.
Margret Hamilton didn’t stumble upon the code that we now recognize as software; she crafted it with usability and a form of beauty that only programmers of her time could appreciate. Her deliberate approach propelled her to the position she holds today, serving as a true source of inspiration for me in my own career aspirations. Her story encourages me to follow a path that combines functionality and artistry, much like she did in her groundbreaking work.