I've been testing since 2002.

Here's one line about something important I learned or experienced that year:

2002 - How to install sound card and graphics card drivers onto a windows pc.

2003 - I have no idea what testing is.

2004 - Being a games tester may not be a great long-term career move.

2005 - If your current employer doesn't recognise the skills, somebody else in the market will.

2006 - Having a well paid job where you do nothing isn't the winning move you think it is.

2007 - Companies that look successful from the outside are often winging it on the inside.

2008 - When your CTO tells you not to splurge this Christmas, he's doing you a solid.

2009 - Cliques suck.

2010 - Show your work and get things in writing.

2011 - The testing industry is HUGE and isn't homogenous.

2012 - Working at large companies and having their name on your CV opens doors.

2013 - Working at SMEs, getting your hands dirty with allTheThings and getting experience opens doors.

2014 - Don't leave your current job without a contract and firm start date from the next one.

2015 - Working with friends is the best.

2016 - Networking isn't just for CCNA exams.

2017 - The opportunity to do excellent testing in regulated environments is HUGE but be prepared to overcome a lot of fear.

2018 - Give yourself credit when you've done a good job.

2019 - Don't give everything to work because you won't have much left over for yourself.

2020 - No seriously. Working with friends is THE best.

2021 - Sometimes you get an offer so good, it's irresponsible to turn it down.

2022 - You have more people rooting for you than you think, so don't keep your troubles to yourself.

2023 - Don't allow yourself to get derailed because you don't have time to waste.

2024 - TBD :)

What lessons have you learned over the years?