I think of myself as an engineer, not as a visionary or 'big thinker.' I don't have any lofty goals

I think of myself as an engineer, not as a visionary or 'big thinker.' I don't have any lofty goals

Linus Torvalds, the creator of the Linux operating system, is often described as a pragmatic engineer rather than a visionary or big thinker. Despite his immense contributions to the world of technology, Torvalds has always maintained a humble and down-to-earth attitude towards his work. In interviews and public appearances, he has often stated that he sees himself primarily as an engineer, focused on solving practical problems rather than pursuing grandiose visions or lofty goals.

This mindset is reflected in Torvalds' approach to software development. When he first started working on Linux in the early 1990s, his goal was simply to create a better operating system for his personal use. He never set out to revolutionize the world of technology or become a household name. Instead, he focused on writing clean, efficient code and collaborating with other developers to improve the software.

Despite his lack of lofty goals, Torvalds' work on Linux has had a profound impact on the tech industry. Today, Linux is used by millions of people around the world, powering everything from smartphones to supercomputers. The open-source nature of the software has also inspired a new generation of developers to contribute to the project and build upon Torvalds' original vision.

Torvalds' engineering mindset is also evident in his management style. As the benevolent dictator of the Linux project, he is known for his no-nonsense approach to decision-making and his focus on technical excellence. He has a reputation for being blunt and direct in his communication, but also for being fair and open to feedback from his team.