Understanding Your Interest in Coding

It is a common misconception that you can decide whether you like coding just by looking at it. Until you try it, you won’t truly know. Whether you’re considering a career in software development or just exploring it as a hobby, the only way to find out is to give it a shot.

Does this mean that every activity we take up is our “thing”? Hardly. Sometimes, we might try something and find out it’s not our cup of tea. For example, if draw a picture makes your hands tingle and pencils fall into your lap, chances are, you might enjoy it. But, just because you can’t seem to draw a straight line or you find it frustrating doesn’t mean it’s not your passion! You might just need to find your niche.

Similarly, driving might become enjoyable with time and practice. I spent decades figuring out how to enjoy driving, despite initial frustration. It takes time to find your passion and even more to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Codes and Thoughts: The Journey Begins

In my 40-year journey into coding, I discovered that it was what I truly enjoyed. Initially, I started as an electronics engineer, but over time, I realized that writing software was more intriguing and satisfying. The trick, as I’ve found, is to find what you love and keep doing it. It might start as a hobby and then transform into a rewarding career.

Bringing Coding to the Surface: Identifying Your Interests

Are you curious about whether coding is your passion? You need to try it out. There are many ways to get started, such as taking an introductory course that includes hands-on projects or working through an insightful book. No one can decide for you whether it’s your passion; it’s up to you to explore and test the waters.

If you’re already passionate about software development and eager to learn more, you’ll know it’s your thing. Conversely, if the process feels like a frustrating ordeal, it’s a sign that it might not be for you. Remember that coding is just a part of what a professional software developer does, and other skills and attributes are essential for long-term success.

Common Traits of a Potential Codder

While no one can predict with certainty who will be successful in coding, there are some common traits that people who enjoy and excel in this field tend to exhibit. Here are a few signs:

Love for Logical Puzzles: If you enjoy video games of the RPG/Puzzle/Adventure type, board games, and other similar activities, you might have a natural inclination towards coding. Attention to Detail: Coding often requires careful attention to detail. If you can follow instructions without skipping steps or making assumptions, and if you notice when something is vague and seek clarification, you’re on the right path. Problem Decomposition: Breaking down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks is a key skill in coding. If you are adept at this, you are likely well-suited for a coding career. Reading Comprehension: Reading and understanding technical documentation is a crucial part of coding. If you excel at reading and comprehension, you’ll find coding rewarding. Curiosity about Technology: If you’re genuinely curious about how technology and computers work, you’re probably interested in coding. Comfort with Communication: Being able to articulate your ideas is vital in the world of coding. If you are comfortable communicating your thoughts and ideas, you’re likely a good fit for coding. Tolerance for Frustration: Debugging code can be tedious and frustrating. If you’re patient and willing to keep trying until you resolve issues, you’ll enjoy the journey. Balance of Micro and Macro Thinking: Being able to switch between the minutiae of coding and the bigger picture is a valuable skill. If you can handle a significant amount of information in your short-term memory, you’re well-prepared for coding.

While these traits are often associated with top performers in coding, they are not the only factors. Personal interest, perseverance, and a passion for learning are equally important.

A Final Word of Wisdom

Ultimately, coding is not just a hobby; it’s a fulfilling career. If you find yourself fascinated by it, there’s a good chance it’s your thing. But don’t let the occasional challenges put you off—persevere and you may just discover that coding is the most rewarding pursuit you’ve ever embarked on.