What did your old boss actually mean by "boring" though, like was he talking about a hard technical thing or just something nobody wants to do? I ask because people say "boring skill" and mean totally different stuff. Some mean spreadsheets, some mean just showing up on time and not quitting. Your mileage may vary on which one pays off. What was the skill he was pushing you toward, and did you ever actually try it or did you just argue and walk away?