Don't Learn WordPress! Self-Taught Web Developers and Programmers

"Hey everyone, it's Dorian here. Today, I want to talk about a common pitfall many self-taught developers might fall into: spending too much time learning WordPress. With over 455 million websites using WordPress, it might seem like a lucrative skill to master, but here's why you might want to reconsider."

The Reality of WordPress Development

While WordPress powers a significant portion of the web, specializing in WordPress development can lead to being pigeonholed in roles that are more about content management than actual development. These positions often involve using pre-built themes and plugins rather than coding from scratch, which can severely limit your growth as a developer.

The Trap of WordPress Jobs

WordPress developer roles are often not as financially rewarding as other development paths. The market is saturated with WordPress jobs that might not pay as well as roles requiring knowledge of more in-demand and technically complex languages like JavaScript, Python, or Ruby.

My Experience

From personal experience, I found myself building WordPress sites early in my career, thinking it would be a stepping stone. However, I quickly realized it wasn't contributing to my growth as a developer or helping my resume stand out for the type of jobs I actually wanted.

What Should You Focus On Instead?

If you're just starting your journey as a self-taught developer, focus on acquiring solid foundations in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These skills open up more opportunities in front-end development and provide a base to learn other technologies and frameworks that are in higher demand.

Using WordPress Wisely

That's not to say WordPress is without its uses. It's a fantastic tool for quickly setting up sites for personal projects or small businesses. Just be mindful of how much time you invest in it and ensure it's not at the expense of learning more versatile and marketable skills.

Conclusion

While WordPress development might offer quick wins, think long-term about your career and the skills that will make you a more versatile and sought-after developer. Your future self will thank you for focusing on technologies that challenge you and push your boundaries.

"Thanks for tuning in. If you found this video helpful, please give it a like, and consider subscribing for more advice and insights into becoming a successful self-taught developer. Let me know your thoughts on WordPress and other technologies you're excited to learn in the comments below. See you in the next video!"