Dear developers,
After 10 years in the software development world, I’ve learned a thing or two—some the hard way. I’m here to share those lessons with you so you can avoid the mistakes I made and make the most of your journey.
Before we dive in, a quick note: everything I’m sharing here comes from my own experiences and views after 10 years in the software world. This isn’t advice set, in stone—just what’s worked (or not worked) for me. Take what resonates, and feel free to leave the rest. Everyone’s journey is different!
Who Am I?
I'm a software engineer with almost a decade of experience under my belt. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure (and sometimes the challenge) of working with hundreds of developers and clients. My expertise? Full-stack development, with a special love for ReactJS, and Laravel, and creating seamless experiences on both web and React Native.
Work: DOs and DON'Ts
DO: Apply for Jobs That Excite You
Don’t hesitate to go after that job you’re eyeing, but make sure you’re qualified for it. Chasing roles you’re not ready for can lead to frustration. Instead, focus on roles where you can grow and contribute meaningfully.
DO: Improve Your Skills
Always be learning. The tech world is constantly evolving, and so should you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—everyone’s learning. Remember, even the most seasoned developers don’t have all the answers.
DO: Give Your Best in Every Project
Whether it’s a big project or a small task, put your best foot forward. But also, don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is a part of growth, and each mistake is a lesson in disguise.
DON'T: Overthink—Start Doing
Analysis paralysis is real. Sometimes, the best way to learn is by doing. Stop overthinking and start coding. You’ll be surprised at how much you can achieve.
DO: Find Mentors
This is something I wish I’d done sooner. Find mentors who can guide you, offer feedback, and help you navigate your career. Learn from their experiences and mistakes.
DO: Set Boundaries
Especially if you’re working from home, make sure you have clear boundaries between work and personal life. Burnout is real, and setting boundaries is key to avoiding it.
DO: Understand the Project Before Starting
Before you dive into a project, make sure you fully understand the requirements. Misunderstandings can lead to wasted time and effort. Clarify expectations and deliver on them.
DO: Provide Value
You’re part of a team, and your insights are valuable. Share what you know, help your colleagues, and contribute to the company’s success. Collaboration is key.
Personal: DOs and DON'Ts
DO: Share Your Work Online
Start sharing your projects and achievements on social media. But remember to check with your client or company if the work can be publicly shared. It’s a great way to build your personal brand.
DO: Connect with Others
Networking isn’t just for salespeople. Connect with peers, share your work, give feedback, and engage with the community. The more you interact, the more you grow.
DON'T: Ignore Self-Promotion
Self-promotion might feel awkward at first, but it’s an essential skill. Learn how to showcase your work and achievements without being boastful.
DO: Journal Regularly
Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool for reflection and growth. Write down your thoughts, lessons learned, and goals. It’s amazing how much you can learn about yourself.
DO: Understand Your Finances
Tech salaries can be lucrative, but it’s easy to lose track of spending. Make sure you understand your finances and stick to a budget. Financial stability is crucial for peace of mind.
Health & Fitness: DOs and DON'Ts
DO: Prioritize Your Health
Make time to work out and take care of your body. Sitting in front of a computer all day isn’t exactly great for your health, so get moving!
DO: Raise Concerns
If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Whether it’s work-related stress or physical discomfort, don’t ignore it. Your health should always come first.
DON'T: Rely on Caffeine
Caffeine might be a developer’s best friend, but too much of it isn’t great for you. Instead of energy drinks, try water or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and focused.
DON'T: Overuse Headphones
I love my headphones as much as the next developer, but be mindful of the volume. Prolonged use at high volumes can damage your hearing.
DO: Get a Smartwatch
A smartwatch that tracks your activity can be a great motivator. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive—just something to remind you to move and stay active.
DO: Get Ergonomic Accessories
Invest in a good ergonomic mouse and chair. They don’t have to be expensive, but they should be functional and comfortable. Your body will thank you in the long run!
DO: Understand You’re on Your Own Timeline
Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different. Focus on giving your best and continuously improving. Comparison can be harmful, so just keep moving forward at your own pace.
Freelancing: DOs and DON'Ts
DO: Understand Freelancing Is Tough
Freelancing isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. It’s hard work, and the income can be unpredictable. Be prepared for uncertainty and have a backup plan in place.
DON'T: Quit Your Job Prematurely
Unless you have a solid backup plan or enough savings, don’t quit your day job to freelance. It’s better to start freelancing on the side until you have a steady stream of clients.
DO: Expect Difficult Clients
Not all clients are easy to work with. Some might be demanding or even disrespectful. Don’t let this get to you—learn from these experiences and move on.
Conclusion
After 10 years in the industry, I’ve learned that being a software engineer is about more than just coding. It’s about continuous learning, building relationships, and caring for yourself. Whether you’re just starting or have been at it for a while, I hope these DOs and DON'Ts help you navigate your journey. Keep coding, keep growing, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride!
If there's anything you'd like me to dive deeper into, just let me know — I'd be more than happy to expand on any of the topics!
If you found this helpful, I’d love to connect — 𝕏
Inspiring, beautifully crafted, and packed with insights for anyone in tech.👏🎉