Life often has a way of surprising us, and my journey from behind the bar counter to becoming a web developer is a testament to that. I’m a simple guy, a 38-year-old on a quest to discover my Ikigai – that elusive balance of passion, profession, vocation, and the needs of the world. This is the story of how I found the courage to transition into the world of web development.

Life behind the bar

For 15 years, I poured drinks, mixed cocktails, and witnessed countless stories unfold in the dimly lit ambiance of the bar I called home. While it had its charms, I couldn’t ignore the nagging feeling that something was missing. I yearned for a deeper sense of fulfillment, a reason to wake up in the morning that extended beyond the nightlife.

Hint of passion

My fascination with mechanics and the inner workings of technology was a constant presence in my life. During the rare moments of downtime at the bar, I started to dive into the intricacies of technology, trying to understand how everything fits together. Each new insight felt like solving a puzzle, and it quickly turned into a passion. I couldn’t get enough of it.

Self discovery

As I delved deeper into web development and technology, I realized that the path to mastering this craft was going to be challenging. I am a self-taught developer, which meant countless hours of learning, practicing, and overcoming obstacles. The late nights in front of my computer were tough, but they were also incredibly rewarding.

World needs

While contemplating this career shift, I wondered if web development aligned with the needs of the world i live in. In today’s digital age, another industrial revolution, there’s a growing demand for talented and passionate guys willing and able to think out of the box and solve problems. Not to earn a paycheck but because they enjoy it so much. I can describe the feeling like solving the puzzle or winning the game you love playing. That is my Ikigai.

Financial stability

Leaving the stability of my bartending job was a daunting prospect. The steady income had been my lifeline, but my growing passion for web development and understanding technology’s inner workings gave me the courage to embrace the unknown. I realized that I could be paid for something I loved and believed in.

The journey ahead

My pursuit of Ikigai has brought me to this point, where I’m no longer just a bartender; I’m a budding web developer with a passion for understanding technology’s mechanics. My journey is ongoing, and the path ahead is still filled with uncertainty, but every line of code I write and every project I complete is a step closer to my true purpose.

As I continue this transition and exploration of my newfound passion, I want to share my knowledge and experiences with the world. This blog is the canvas where I’ll paint the picture of my journey – the challenges, the triumphs, and everything in between. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to follow their passions and uncover their own Ikigai.

Until the next chapter of our adventure.