Growing as a Software Developer: The Real Talk Nobody Tells You (Except Now)

Let's face it, everyone loves giving advice. But senior developers? They take it to a whole new level. Sometimes, you listen to them talk about design patterns and algorithms and wonder if they're secretly reciting spells. "Clean code," they say, like there's some magical coding ritual that makes everything perfect.

Newsflash: there are no secret handshakes, and complexity is just a bunch of Legos stacked on a strong foundation of basics.

This post isn't about preaching some gospel of software development. It's about the stuff I learned the hard way, through trial and error (and mostly error).

1. Don't Try to Be Neo From The Matrix (Learn the Basics First)

Remember when you were a kid learning to walk? You didn't start sprinting like Usain Bolt; you took it one step at a time. Same with code. Before you try to learn ReactJS and get fancy with frameworks, get comfortable with the building blocks: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript (no hard feelings just an example). Trust me, you'll thank yourself later when you're not wrestling with a website that looks like it was designed by a toddler with a paintbrush.

2. Admit When You're Clueless (It Won't Hurt, Promise!)

We've all been there. You're in a meeting, someone throws out a technical term, and you just smile and nod like you have any idea what they're talking about. Resist the urge to fake it! It might feel good in the moment, but that ego boost will come crashing down when you actually need to use that knowledge. Nobody expects you to know everything. The best developers are the ones who constantly learn and aren't afraid to ask questions.

3. Stop Comparing, Start Learning

Here's a secret: everyone starts somewhere. Comparing yourself to developers with more experience is like comparing your tricycle to a Bugatti. It's pointless and discouraging. Instead, focus on learning from their mistakes and experiences. Chances are, they're more than happy to help if you ask nicely (with food, maybe).

4. Network Like a Butterfly, Not a Bulldozer (Quality Over Quantity):

Networking isn't about collecting a bunch of contacts. It's about building relationships with people who can genuinely help you grow. Find developers who are a few steps ahead of you on the journey. They can share resources, answer your questions, and maybe even pair you up on projects where you can learn from doing.

5. Practice Makes Progress (and Less Google, Stack Overflow and Chat GPT)

There's a reason they call it "practice" and not "perfect practice." The more you code, the better you'll become. Don't be afraid to experiment, build silly little projects, and break things (because you will, and that's okay). The key is to learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.

6. Never Stop Leveling Up:

Once you get comfortable with a skill, don't get stuck in your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to learn new things. Take on projects that push your boundaries. Think of your brain like a muscle. The more you work it, the stronger it gets, and the better you'll be at tackling those coding challenges that come your way.

So, there you have it. The not-so-secret secrets to growing as a software developer. Now get out there, code like nobody's watching (except maybe Google, Stack Overflow and Chat GPT), and build something awesome!