The best way to solve a problem is not to have it in the first place. Great programmers aren't better at dealing with complexity, they are better at reducing no

The best way to solve a problem is not to have it in the first place. Great programmers aren't better at dealing with complexity, they are better at reducing non inherent complexity and finding ways to break inherent complexity down into pieces that are easy to reason about. That takes experience and dedication to the craft. The latter I think is a huge difference between 10x programmers and others. The simple desire to be the best you can is a powerful force.