Hey everyone! I've been programming since I was 12 and turned my passion into a career at 25. I started freelancing in 2016 and really enjoyed the challenges that came with it. Recently, I switched to part-time freelancing in addition to a salaried job, and I've noticed something odd — I find programming a lot less enjoyable now in a corporate environment compared to when I was freelancing. In fact, I sometimes enjoy it more as a hobby than as a job.
Part of this dissatisfaction could be due to feeling inadequate in a team setting, even though my colleagues assure me I have enough knowledge. That just seems to stick and is pretty demotivating. Also, my relationship with AI is complicated; I often use it like a coding companion, but I can't help but feel conflicted.
Has anyone else felt this way? I'm open to any advice or perspectives you might have.
4 Answers
Sounds like it might be worth considering a change in your work environment. Salaried jobs can often feel like they commoditize your skills, making you feel like just a resource. If you’re not learning or growing, rethink whether this position is worth it. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, see it as a chance to learn more—if not, don’t hesitate to jump ship for something that challenges you better!
It’s a lot to unpack! Many feel that burnout when turning a passion into a career; it can zap the joy right out of it. The truth is, every developer has their own unique challenges and frustrations. Don't pressure yourself into being perfect. Focus on improving where you can, and don’t lose sight of your creativity — that’s what got you into this in the first place!
It sounds like you might be dealing with a bit of impostor syndrome! It’s really common, especially when transitioning from a solo hobby to a collaborative job. You know more than you think, but that nagging feeling of inadequacy can really take a toll. Just remember, no one knows everything, and asking questions is part of the growth process! Also, regarding AI, while it can help with ideas, relying on it too much might undermine your own learning and confidence.
You're definitely not alone in feeling this way! I think the key is to acknowledge that switching from working alone to being part of a team can change your perspective a lot. You might want to focus more on improving team productivity rather than just individual performance. Also, be aware that if you’re clocking more than 40 hours a week, burnout could be creeping in. It’s important to set boundaries around work and make time for other hobbies to keep your passion alive.
Exactly! It’s essential to maintain a balance. If your work feels draining, take a step back and reassess whether your current job aligns with your values and goals. If it’s not fulfilling, don’t hesitate to explore other opportunities!
Yeah, I totally relate! Asking questions is key. Trying to learn from your mistakes and interacting more freely with your team can really help alleviate that feeling. Plus, using AI can be helpful but can also leave you with a hollow sense of achievement, like you’re solving problems without really understanding them.