" The advice I used to give to engineers I hired was, ‘Don’t eat the pizza.’ Sometimes when you walk into these high-pressure environments, it’s, like, doughnuts everywhere and all these little cakes. "
- Harper Reed

In a high-stress work environment, it’s common to see various treats like doughnuts and cakes around the office, often served as a way to boost morale or provide comfort during challenging times. The advice given to new hires suggests resisting these tempting snacks, implying that one should focus on their tasks rather than indulging in such distractions.

Beyond its literal context, this quote also serves as a metaphorical reminder about maintaining discipline and prioritizing responsibilities over fleeting pleasures. In any demanding situation, whether it’s dealing with tight deadlines or complex problems, the advice to "not eat the pizza" can be understood as a call for resilience and focus. It encourages individuals to resist immediate gratification in favor of long-term goals and productivity. This mindset is crucial not only in engineering but also across various professions where sustained effort is needed to achieve success.

Harper Reed is an accomplished technology leader known for his work in software development, particularly during the Obama administration where he served as the Chief Technology Officer for Digital for Change.gov. His experience spans from start-ups to large-scale government projects, making him a respected voice on issues related to innovation and effective teamwork.