19 lessons I wish I'd known earlier in my software engineering career
Updated: February 8, 2022•2 min read
1. Choose a language
You need to start slow. Practice as much as possible.
2. Understand a programming concept
If you don’t remember the syntax that’s fine, use Google to find answers.
3. Use online tutorials
You get multiple perspectives. It helps you learn faster and more efficiently.
4. Dedicate hours for learning every day in your calendar
Read blogs. Keep learning new things and use what you learned by building something useful.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice!
The saying “practice makes perfect” is very true if you’re willing to put in the time to be great at something.
6. Don’t give up
One key to becoming a good coder is to never give up.
7. Don’t reinvent the wheel
Not every solution needs to be built from scratch, use existing libraries.
8. Work on your soft skills
Practice writing, It helps you in the long run and will help you stand out from the rest.
9. Build a strong portfolio of projects
Learn + Build things, a win-win situation.
10. Document Your Journey
Write blog posts. Many people who are starting their journey today, are definitely going to be inspired by your writings.
11. Earn while you learn
More here - Make money blogging while learning new things
12. Define small goals
Take one thing at a time, this is the ultimate confidence booster.
13. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Don’t feel shy to ask even if you have silly questions. Use StackOverflow.
14. Challenge yourself
Don’t compete with others, compete with yourself.
15. Learn the basics and build small applications
Powerful foundation = 20+ small applications. Keep track in a github repo.
16. Refuse negative talk
Remember programmers never quit, there is always a workaround. Take a break and bounce back stronger.
17. Remember nobody is born a pro
Consistency, hard work and giving your best shot will make you a pro.
18. Nothing works unless you do
Practice makes a man perfect.
19. Focus on the process, not the outcome
If you have a solid foundation, the rest is easy to crack.