Read lots of science fiction. Find something awesome that no one thinks computers can do yet. Pare it down or limit its focus to the point where it might be p

Read lots of science fiction. Find something awesome that no one thinks computers can do yet. Pare it down or limit its focus to the point where it might be practical. Don't worry about how much memory it uses or how slow it would run. Then, try to program it. You will push your limits and if it's awesome enough, people will be deeply impressed with your ability.