Talking to a new guy made me rethink how I run cable

Had a chat with a younger installer named Dave on a job site in Sacramento yesterday. He asked why I still use a fishtape instead of a glow rod for most pulls, and honestly I didn't have a good answer besides "that's what I learned on." It got me thinking about how much of my process is just habit versus actually being the best way. Anyone else have a moment where a rookie pointed out something that made you change your methods?

3 comments

3 Comments

lindamartin1mo ago

Isn't it funny how someone younger can make you realize you've been doing something a certain way just because you always have? I've caught myself stuck in routines like that too, not just with tools but even with how I organize my garage. Makes you wonder what other old habits we're holding onto without thinking about it.

the_paul1mo ago

Yeah @lindamartin, my buddy only just realized he's been using the same broken broom for ten years.

king.derek2d ago

Ugh man that hits close to home. I had this exact thing happen with a kid showing me how to use a Milwaukee Hole Dozer instead of a spade bit and I felt so dumb for not switching sooner.