For other people interested check out https://www.kibin.com/. I haven't used it myself (yet) but it's basically an open source way of having your writing edited by others.
I mean, I'm able to communicate things. But I'm interested in being able to write in a way that's effective and intriguing. I look up to people's writing like James Altucher, Tim Ferris, and I think Paul Graham's essays are absolutely great. Partly I just need more experience in things to write about, but I'm trying to be proactive in getting better at it.
My blog is on my about.me page. I intentionally don't really post the link because I'm not happy with it as to publicize it - but feel free to check it out! vjtorres.com
In my experience I've been trying to learn beginner programming with Ruby on Rails. I feel like there are tons of high quality resources for Python that I come across. Ruby on rails documentation seems pretty good. Ruby documentation though has been tough to find.
I wonder why there isn't more publicity on rexly.com? It seems like an awesome service, filling a niche in a way that's different from the typical music start up.
Two things. I use a paper folded up once horizontally and twice vertically which creates 12 spaces that I use for calendar days for immediate to do lists. For longer things, like interviews and thoughts, I use a small moleskin which makes it a real pleasure to write.
I downgraded recently, and it was a hassle for me. (At least when I did it) there was no downgrade button or explanation of how to do it - well there was but it was extremely subtle and hard to find. What it came down to was finding and contacting the customer service address and stating you wanted to downgrade.
Honestly,I would be offended. Good work is demonstrated by output. Having the feeling of someone looking over your shoulder is a statement of a lack of trust and confidence. I can't speak for you or your situation, but I would openly communicate this and try to find a solution that is mutually beneficial. Maybe your manager is concerned about the level of output, which can be measured in different less intrusive ways.
Try to identify his motivation and find a solution that works for both parties.
This is probably obvious - but I would approach it as if you were starting any start up that had outside investment. Have a lawyer review the terms and make sure everything is in your best interest.
In my experience (which isn't a ton), I really enjoyed having 3 person co-founding team. As far as decision making it helps to have that number of people to help settle debates. Strictly on that level it was a positive as long as there is a level of cooperation and dedication with everyone.
I might have some different thoughts as far as your statement on easily and reachable goals. I think a much more effective technique is achievable but challenging and out of your comfort zone goals, that can be easily categorized as a success or not. (i.e. Instead of learning the guitar - I hope to learn 5 songs on the acoustic guitar by December)
My personal biggest goals are: (short-term)Get a job at start up that puts me in a position where I get to work hand in hand with the founders => Get involved with Angel Investing by forming relationships with existing (long-term) Assemble a team and be part of a start up from the ground up => Get involved with the Angel Investing community as an investor.
Also, Tim Ferris has some great thoughts as far as goal setting if you are interested.
I've had some good luck searching for freelancers on elance.com. Look at portfolio's, and if one of them has a style you like and some talent - you can use them as a resource for ideas. I usually have a couple ideas of what I am going for (like the feelings I want to project like "friendly"). I've been able to get some solid designs for $50 bucks. Worst case scenario you don't like it and try something else. I've heard 99 designs is great, but they would cost quite a bit more.
The "Top Idea in Your Mind" is a great essay by Paul Graham that somewhat addresses how ideas happen. Thing is here he talks about only one Idea in your head receives that kind of attention. My humble opinion would be to find an issue, problem, or interesting concept loosely related to your end goal (Analytics Company Internship) and find something to work on, in the scope of the other comments. With the research and finding of that alone, some things might come to mind.
The way I've sometimes come up with my ideas is through writing. Not an essay per se, but just write down your idea, problem, anything. Use it to brainstorm, connect, categorize, or anything. Play around. Hope that helps.