Hey everyone, I think I might be sabotaging myself in my coding journey. Right now, I'm working through the Odin Project and I'm at the weather API project stage, but it feels harder than I expected. I actually created a similar weather API project a couple of years ago when I was doing a beginner course with SheCodes. Since then, I've taken more Python courses and completed a software engineering bootcamp with CodeFirstGirls, where we covered JavaScript, Python, and MySQL. Currently, I'm employed as a web designer at a law firm, and while I have skills in HTML, Bootstrap, and CSS, I don't feel challenged. I've been at this job for 13 months and I'm starting to feel like I'm regressing.
I hesitate to move forward because I recently revisited JavaScript, thinking I needed to solidify my understanding before diving into React. I'm not sure how much JavaScript knowledge is necessary before progressing, and I sometimes feel like I rely on ChatGPT a bit too much for coding help.
Is this all normal? I'm 26 soon and currently making 31k, but I thought I'd be further along by now. Am I just being dramatic or impatient?
3 Answers
First off, congrats on landing a web dev job! That’s a big deal!
Secondly, it’s essential to remember that comparison can cloud your perspective. At 25 or 26, you have all the time in the world to grow your career. Stick with the Odin Project and tackle challenges as they come, but also don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You mentioned going back to JavaScript; that’s okay, but make sure you push yourself to learn React and beyond. Just ensure your fundamentals are strong!
About AI—sure, it can help, but don’t let it be your primary learning tool. Think about what skills and experiences you want for your next role because you’re already on the right path!
AI tools are definitely part of the future, but I think it’s important to have a strong foundation first. You should be able to think critically about your code and debug without relying heavily on AI. I’d suggest giving it 6 to 12 months of solid learning before leaning on tools like ChatGPT too much. Sure, they’re convenient, but trust me, you don’t want to shortcut the fundamental concepts—it can lead to issues later on!
I can relate to your struggle. I’m currently taking a Security+ cert course and have done a bit of full-stack before. It seems like you’re self-aware, which is a huge strength. Sometimes it helps to have something motivating you in your learning journey beyond just career goals. What drives you to improve your skills in development?
What do you consider strong fundamentals? Like being able to build projects and debug without AI? What benchmarks mark someone as having a good grasp?