I'm nearing the end of this book - which is basically a compilation of Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! and What Do You Care What Other People Think?: Further Adventures of a Curious Character with the special inclusion of a audio CD of one of Feynman's talks..(you really get more into who this person is when you can hear him). EXCELLENT reading about a real person who excelled in his field (worked on the atomic bomb, get a Nobel Peace Price, Space Shuttle disaster, etc.). Some take a-ways:

• understanding and memorizing are two different things
• if you can simply state the problem, solution, etc. so the average non-involved person can understand - it probably means YOU understand
• once you can 'visualize' the system, solution, etc. without working through the details - then you can declare some level of competence in the field
• being able to work with others in mapping a solution that does not involve positioning, politics, etc. is a sign of a very healthy relationship
• have fun in what ever you do
• never be intimidated by what YOU think other people are thinking about you (WHO CARES)
• opportunities are all around - be ready to recognize them