Insights Gained from Five Years as a Programmer
Written on
Chapter 1: My Journey into Programming
My programming career began with an internship at a pharmaceutical firm, which lasted around six months. While the experience was engaging and somewhat educational, I often found myself bored due to the limited activities available.
After my internship, I took about three months to search for a job. At 21, I had few responsibilities—my expenses were modest, and I was fortunate to have enough savings to live independently from my parents, although I continued to reside with them.
Eventually, I landed a position at a promising company that appeared impressive based on their website. They were seeking a programmer for their Systems department, which was precisely what I was looking for.
After successfully navigating their challenging selection process and interviews with my future supervisor, I received the classic response: "We will call you." Fortunately, just three days later, I received a call with great news—I had been hired! Thus began my new journey, brimming with opportunities and excitement.
Over the next five years, I learned an incredible amount. Initially, I felt confident in my knowledge, bolstered by my academic success. However, I quickly discovered that the "real" world presents a different set of challenges, one from which learning never truly ends. Below are some key lessons I gleaned from my time in the industry.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Curiosity
Cultivating curiosity is essential for exploring the unknown. It encourages us to ask questions about things we have yet to encounter. A curious person embodies the spirit of an adventurous explorer, always seeking to expand their knowledge. Without curiosity, we stagnate.
Curiosity propels us to investigate and uncover new skills or realms we didn't realize existed, bringing joy and fulfillment.
Section 1.2: The Value of Humility
Humility involves recognizing your limitations—acknowledging what you know and what you have yet to learn. It’s crucial to remember that no one can know everything. When you need assistance, don’t let your ego prevent you from asking for help. Seeking help isn’t a sign of ignorance; it's a natural part of learning.
Section 1.3: Embracing Self-Directed Learning
In today’s digital age, claiming you can't find information is no longer an excuse. With the internet at our fingertips, a world of knowledge is readily accessible. Whether you’re a programmer, a salesperson, or a secretary, the ability to research and learn independently is invaluable.
Instead of waiting for a mentor to guide you, take the initiative to seek out information that can enhance your skills.
Section 1.4: The Necessity of Patience
As technology evolves, so too does the speed at which we receive information. For instance, a simple Google search yields millions of results in mere seconds. While quick access to information is beneficial in many ways, it can create unrealistic expectations in the workplace.
New employees often feel pressured to learn quickly and meet high expectations. If you make mistakes, you are encouraged to move on just as swiftly. It’s crucial to put in your best effort but also to exercise patience with your personal growth.
Unlike others, I believe that while learning can be expedited, it’s essential not to compare your progress to that of others. Instead, focus on your own growth—compare who you are now to who you were a day, a week, or even a year ago.
Chapter 2: Further Reflections on Learning
For more insights and learning opportunities, visit PlainEnglish.io. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Join our Community Discord and become part of our Talent Collective.