Frequently Asked Questions
Over the two decades, I have responded to a lot of emails and attended many “meet the speaker” sessions. Through all of those sessions, I have compiled (and will evolve) a list of the questions I am most commonly asked. I hope that this list is helpful, and also introduces you to some things you may not have previously considered.
last updated 09.16.2023
Why do you invest so much energy with Scaled Agile, when SAFe isn’t Agile?
The least Agile thing anyone can do is argue about what is and is not Agile. There are no victors in an ideological war.
What should I do about my career?
Read the book “So Good They Can’t Ignore You”. Once you have done that, connect with Adele Leah.
What should I do with my life?
Listen to “Happy, Smart, and Useful”.
Can you introduce me to (someone in my network)?
No, sorry. Absolutely not on request. If my friends ask me if I know someone who’s doing what you’re doing, then I’ll be glad to introduce you. But not if they don’t ask.
Will you invest in my company?
Maybe. Send me your pitch.
Can I use your video/article?
Yes. Anything I put on AdamMattis.com is free forever. It would be nice if you could credit me and link back to AdamMattis.com. But honestly, I don’t care either way.
Will you be on my podcast?
Maybe. Email me a few questions you’d like to ask. I enjoy interviews when the questions are interesting.
Will you speak at my event?
Maybe. Email me with the details and we can talk.
I’ve got content for your site.
No, this is my personal site, completely non-commercial, for my personal expression only.
I can’t focus.
If you can’t learn and can’t focus you will struggle in the post-digital economy. Read the book “Deep Work” by Cal Newport. Practice meditation. Yes it’s hard. You have to do the work.
I have a boring well-paying job. Should I quit my job to pursue my passion full-time?
Read “How to do what you love and make good money”.
What do you think of this business idea?
It doesn’t matter what anyone thinks, except your customers. Nobody can predict whether it will work or not. So stop asking “in-theory” and go find out. Find just one paying customer, and please that person.
How do I become a better writer?
Write publicly every week. Post it somewhere people see it. Something changes when your writing is out in the public, being seen by strangers. Seeing it through their eyes helps more than anything.
Write. Publish. Break stuff. Fix the spelling and grammar later.
What should I do about my relationship or lack of?
I am the last person you should be asking for relationship advice. Seriously. Read “Models” by Mark Manson. (Only guys ask me for relationship advice.)
I’m really sad.
Read “When Things Fall Apart” by Pema Chödrön.