I'm a 40-year-old project manager wanting to learn some coding for side projects and to enhance teamwork. It seems like everyone else got a head start on this. I'm curious if anyone else has begun learning coding later in life and whether it's worth it. Where should I begin?
5 Answers
Starting later can actually work in your favor. Your past experiences give you a unique perspective that younger coders might not have. Look into practical courses that focus on real-world applications, like building simple automation scripts to improve your work processes. You'll see immediate benefits and it will keep you motivated!
I love the idea of automating tasks with Python!
It’s never too late to learn something new! I've seen folks pick up coding at various ages and thrive. The best place to start is with Python—it's beginner-friendly and very versatile. There are tons of free tutorials and projects online. Just remember, it’s about sticking with it even when it gets tough. You'll feel a rush when your code finally works!
I agree, Python was a great starting point for me!
Thanks for the tip about staying consistent—I needed to hear that!
I started learning to code at 48 and it's been fantastic! Don’t overthink it—just dive in. I used Dr. Barbara Oakley's 'Learning How to Learn' course alongside coding tutorials, which really helped. I’ve even started building small projects. Trust me, once you get going, you'll find it rewarding!
That sounds inspiring! Thanks for the recommendation.
I love that you’ve already done projects! Gives me more motivation!
You're definitely not too late! Many people start coding in their 40s and beyond. The key is to commit to consistency in your learning. Check out resources like Codecademy or free courses on Coursera. You'll be amazed at how quickly things start to click once you begin practicing. Besides, your experience as a project manager will really help you structure your learning and problem-solving approach.
I started with freeCodeCamp—it's a great way to get hands-on experience!
What resources do you recommend for a complete beginner?
Look, it's all about your mindset. If you want to learn, just start. Install Python and play around with it. There are many resources online! And remember, persistence is key—everyone learns at their own pace, so don't get discouraged. Just enjoy the process!
Persistence is what I struggle with, thanks for the reminder!
Great advice! I'm excited to try this approach.
That sounds like a smart approach! Any specific projects you'd recommend?