The best way to predict the future is to invent it
-Donald Knuth.
Programming has been a transformative experience for me, and I’ve learned that it’s not just about writing code, but about solving problems, creating something from scratch, and continuously learning and improving.
As I’ve journeyed through the world of programming, I’ve picked up a few valuable lessons along the way. Here’s me sharing a few things I’ve learned over time.
Embrace the learning journey
Not all programming languages or frameworks will resonate with you at first. There’s nothing bad in exploring different paths in order to find what truly excites you.
You might find the initial learning process dull or monotonous, but you’ll eventually overcome the hurdles and grow, if you’re truly interested in it.
Go Deep On The Basics
If you know the basics well, it’s a lot easier to learn a new tool in the ecosystem.
That was just an excerpt from a similar article I read sometime ago.
It’s usually less tedious, to understand, and build more complex structures, once you’ve mastered the basics. No one is pressuring you. Learn at your own pace, while making sure you understand syntax and control structures.
Learn how to find the information you need.
Read Documentation. They are official guides, and resources provided by the creators of a language, and very essential to developers.
Keep in mind that programming tools constantly update, subscribe to newsletters, articles, just to ensure you are up-to-date.
Practice. Challenge Yourself
Practice makes purr-fect code! Write code regularly, work on small projects or exercises to reinforce new concepts.
Also, solve coding problems. You could participate in coding challenges (e.g HackerRank, Codewars, etc.) I remember I used to love Codewars. They have pretty interesting challenges – I was kind of addicted 😅
Take Breaks and Refresh Your Mind
Taking breaks is an essential part of the programming journey. While working, you can decide to pause, take a walk, or step away from your screen for a few minutes. Better still, take scheduled breaks to recharge and refocus your mind. This helps to improve productivity, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.
Set Goals, reward yourself when you achieve them
Setting coding goals and rewarding yourself when you achieve them is a great way to stay motivated and track your progress as a programmer. Setting specific and achievable goals give you a sense of direction and purpose.
Conclusion
Programming is a journey, not a destination. By embracing the process, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled programmer. Remember to stay curious, keep learning, and enjoy the ride!
