One of the most crucial things to remember when learning to code is that the path is not without its challenges. You may have read or heard about 3 month or 6 month boot camp success stories. These stories could be more harmful then good especially if you need more time. Learning to code is a gradual shift and it’s different for each of us. You may need more time. Don’t let these “success stories” dishearten you. I’m writing this to help the fellow coders who are on a learning journey like me. This is as much a reflection as well as advice based on my journey on learning how to code.

We all have set some goals when we decide to learn to code. Of course, we all want to land that ideal job, earn more etc. But let’s dig deeper. Why do I want that job? Why do I want to earn more? It’s quite important to know our why. I wanted to learn to code so that I could live a life of freedom and dignity. Knowing your "why" will make it easier for you to stay on track and stick with it when things go tough. Goal is the result we want but we need to focus on the process and the results will materialize. It’s much too easy for us to go on a tangent because of the sheer amount choices available to us. Distraction does little to contribute to your personal growth or getting things done. An effective method will help avoid the trap of perfectionism and prevent burnout. I’m not here to provide a ready-to-use system since there isn’t a “one size fits all” solution. Everyone has their own way of learning and approaching things and we must figure out what works for us. Instead I’ve to tried to explain the principles I try and use to help me reach my goals. We can apply these principles and create a system that works for each of us.

Say no often. Actually, say “no” to most things and most of the time. Develop the ability to discern the essentials from the non-essentials. Make your own choices. Get rid of these three presumptions: "I can do both," "I have to," and "It's all important." They are both tempting and dangerous at the same time. They’ll suck you in and leave you overwhelmed, lost. Replace these false assumptions with “I chose to,” “Only a few things really matter,” and “I can do anything but not everything.” This will help you cut all the non-essentials from your life and focus on what is important.

We can’t always control the output especially with something as hard as being a developer. Instead of focusing on something broad like looking for a job ask yourself What can I do right now? Break it down to small chunks. Don’t set goals like I’ll complete this tutorial in 3 days or complete a project in a week. As a beginner developer we’re not yet aware of the extent of our abilities. Orient the plan around effort for e.g. I’ll study for 1 hour today. Remember every team has the same goal: to win. But what each team does to achieve that is what separates the winners from the losers. Decide on one programming language and stick to it till you have a firm grasp of the foundational knowledge. Then you can start applying for jobs.

Effort and hard work is what gets you there not luck.