EVERYTHING About Learning to Code is F**KED!

In 2017, when I embarked on my coding journey, the landscape was markedly different from what it is today. The influx of resources, social media's role, online boot camps, and the overarching influence of AI have transformed the path to becoming a programmer into a minefield of confusion and disillusionment.

The internet is awash with contradictory advice. For those starting out, the simple decision of which programming language to learn is muddled by the myriad of opinions online. While some fundamentals remain unchanged—for instance, the necessity of learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web development—the plethora of choices regarding technology stacks and frameworks can be overwhelming. The challenge isn't just about learning to code; it's about navigating through the noise to find credible, useful information.

The role of tech influencers, including myself, has become a double-edged sword. While aiming to educate, we often find ourselves caught in the struggle for clicks, views, and likes, compromising the integrity of the information shared. The drive to create engaging content can lead to a preference for entertainment over education, diluting the pool of reliable resources.

The job market, too, presents a grim reality. Contrary to the optimistic narratives frequently pushed online, securing a job in tech has become significantly harder. The competition is fiercer, and the expectations are higher than ever before. This isn't to discourage aspiring coders but to provide a realistic picture of the challenges they face.

Boot camps and learning platforms proliferate, promising shortcuts to tech careers. However, many fail to deliver, caught up in profit motives rather than educational outcomes. The allure of high salaries has made software development a popular career choice, further saturating the job market and complicating the journey for self-taught programmers and graduates alike.

Amidst all this, AI's rapid advancement casts a long shadow over the future of tech jobs. The uncertainty it brings is palpable, challenging the notion that coding is a secure and lucrative career path. Yet, despite these obstacles, I believe in the value of learning to code. It opens doors to creative problem-solving, innovation, and adaptability in an ever-changing technological landscape.

For those considering this path, it's crucial to approach with eyes wide open, recognizing both the opportunities and the challenges. While the journey to becoming a programmer today is fraught with uncertainty, it remains a journey worth embarking on, armed with perseverance, critical thinking, and a discerning eye for the resources that truly aim to educate rather than exploit.

In sharing these reflections, my goal is not to discourage but to illuminate the complex reality of learning to code in today's world. The road may be rough, but for those with the determination to navigate it, the rewards of coding—beyond just job prospects—are vast and varied.