Maintaining Your Drive as a Developer.
Four tips that will make sure you don’t drop programming.
So you finally decided to take that big step towards becoming a computer programmer. A huge congratulations on that!
What you probably didn’t know is that programming has its ups and downs, from tackling nasty errors to the joy it brings when your code ends up working exactly the way you want it to.
The problem is some people actually give up when the downs become too annoying, and they slowly start to reconsider their decision to become programmers in the first place.
There is definitely no direct assurance that your programming journey would be smooth sailing, it is probably impossible. However, there are a few things you could put into consideration every single time that error blows up your code that could really cushion the pressure of failing and failing and failing, I think you get the point.
Taking Frequent Breaks
This is probably the most important item on this list and that is why it came first. The importance of taking breaks has been emphasized in almost every area of life. I can’t explain how relaxed I feel every single time my back bones connect with the sweet softness of my bed after hours of going up against my code that just won’t work 😤 or how soothing a cup of coffee could be after staring at error messages all day.
Whatever your best way to relax is, make sure you do it often. If you spend between 4 to 5 hours coding per day, at least one hour should be dedicated to relaxation. It’s often best to relax in between coding sessions because it would give your brain ample opportunity to clear out the clutter and pave way for fresh ideas.
Infact giving yourself some days off coding or anything digitally involved might not be such a bad idea but only do this if you’re working on personal projects.
Share Your Problems
The image above encapsulates my thought perfectly.
Over the years, I have actually discovered that some of my greatest moments in my programming journey are the ones I achieved with people around me to cheer me on, other programmers to give me thoughtful advice. I could think of a handful of projects that I could have given up on had it not been for external support.
Whether it is an individual project or a group assignment, relating your situation to others helps a whole lot especially those who understand your problem. They could have experience with what you are doing and proffer useful solutions to your problem.
If you don’t have a productive group of friends yet, that’s okay the internet, forums, group chats, discord servers are always here for. If you need any suggestions, you are free to ask in the comments.
Develop an Engaging Hobby
Arguably, programming is not a hobby!
I have very clear-cut reasons for my declaration.
For starters, hobbies are meant to be fun, engaging and relaxing. Programming almost never ticks any of those boxes for me and I am pretty sure it is same for most people.
Hobbies are a fallback for when things around you are just pushing you too much and you just want to feel free. If programming is your hobby and it is frustrating the clicks out of you, then what would you fall back on? More code? 🤷♂️
There are more relatively relaxing things to try out as your hobbies as a programmer. The best option to keep your mind sharp while relaxing is probably playing games. I’m not necessarily talking about computer games here because based on who you are that might not be a thing you are willing to do but a simple game of cards, checkers or chess might be just what you need to pop that nerdish smile back on your face.
Whatever you choose is probably still up to you, just make sure it can get you feeling good about yourself once again.
Don’t Code on an Empty Stomach or When You Don’t Feel So Good.
This might sound like something your mom would tell you and Mom’s Right.
Programming is a very complex process that could go from good to worse in a matter of minutes, probably even seconds. Carrying over previous frustration when coding is bound to affect you. If you have something to do like eat or something of that sort, make sure you do it before coding.
The process usually involves a lot of concentration and dedicated time, and I could imagine how hard it would be to focus on your class and methods if a Pizza as beautiful as the one above could be in the exact same position your PC is at that moment 😂.
As regards working through health conditions, it is never a good idea to ignore your body conditions under any circumstances. Get Yourself Treated Then You Code. It’s as simple as it sounds.
Well, that about does it.
Finding your feet in the programming industry can be tricky but by following tips so far, you’re well on your way to an outstanding career both professionally and mentally.
Your feedback is greatly welcomed. I love to hear from my readers. Questions? Suggestions? Additions? It is all welcome in the comments section. Thanks for being amazing readers. Look forward to more from me soon. — KodoMan
