Hey everyone,
I've been working as a DevOps engineer for about six years, with experience in both large and small companies, and using a range of modern DevOps tools. However, after starting my new job a month ago, I feel like I'm hitting a wall. It's not that there aren't opportunities to learn; there's actually a lot to absorb here. But it feels like I'm stuck in the onboarding phase.
In my previous roles, I didn't get much hands-on experience with Kubernetes, Helm, and ArgoCD, which are heavily utilized in my current position. Tasks that I expected to solve easily have turned into frustrating debugging scenarios because the setup is quite unique (and not in a good way, according to my teammates).
My manager is overseas, so I can't reach out for immediate help, and my colleagues are busy with their own work. I don't want to bother them with questions that I feel I should already know the answers to.
How can I overcome this feeling? How can I regain the excitement I once had in my previous jobs? Also, what are some effective ways to learn ArgoCD and Kubernetes in an environment that lacks organized documentation?
Thanks for any advice!
5 Answers
Great advice already! I'd also suggest trying to replicate what’s being done in your current setup. Create a sandbox to experiment in. This way, you can learn the ins and outs without the immediate pressure of real-world application. Also, understanding why certain choices were made in the current setup might give you insights that lead to suggestions for improvements down the line. Good luck!
It's all about dedicated learning time. Take note of what you find challenging regarding Kubernetes and your tools, and break it down. Look for learning resources online that specifically tackle those areas. If possible, have a chat with your manager to see if you can set aside some work hours for learning—it's crucial for your growth.
Learning Kubernetes can be tough because every organization sets it up differently. You really just have to keep pushing through it. That said, consider setting up a local lab environment where you can experiment without the pressure of being on the job. This way, you can try different setups and understand how components interact before applying that knowledge at work. It’ll make your work challenges feel a lot more manageable!
Six years of experience is impressive! But remember, it takes time to get acclimated. After a month, you’re likely just starting to scratch the surface of your company's workflow. I’d give it around six months to really find your groove.
It sounds like you're going through a common struggle that many face when starting in a new role. It's definitely not unusual to feel a bit overwhelmed in your first month, especially with tools like Kubernetes that have a steep learning curve. If your manager is usually unavailable, see if there's someone you can pair with regularly, even if they are busy. It’s key to have that support for guidance.
As for learning ArgoCD and Kubernetes, try to access everything you can and compare it against the official docs to understand the architecture better. This will help you piece things together over time. Don’t feel bad about asking questions; that’s how you'll learn. Just give it some time, and things will likely start clicking!
I totally agree, it’s common to feel like that. Also, remember that everyone else went through their own adjusting phase. Keep asking questions - you’re going to look back in a few months and see how much you've grown!
Exactly! It's all about patience. They hired you for a reason, so trust the process. You’ll start to feel more comfortable soon. Just don't be too hard on yourself!