Common challenges faced by newbie in programming and how to overcome it. (PART 1)
Introduction
Over the past few decades, it has become increasingly clear how many people are shifting towards learning programming. Learning to code can take various forms, such as becoming a software engineer, data scientist, or even a DevOps engineer. There are many reasons why people are learning programming in this age. Some might want to change careers, others aim to earn more money, while some are pursuing it as their first career path. Unfortunately, the majority of these people end up giving up after weeks, months, or even years of embarking on the journey.
As this topic will be covered in different parts, in this article, I will be highlighting one of the most common challenges faced yet often ignored, and how it can be overcome.
The excitement of Getting started
Unknowingly to most, the moment you decide and feel excited to start learning a new programming language or switch to another, you are stepping into a challenging yet thrilling journey. As time goes by, this excitement which initially seems less of a challenge, quickly becomes part of the routine, masking the true complexity of the path ahead.
When you first print “Hello world!” on your console, it feels like a victory — the symbolic moment when you think, “I can build the next software bigger than Facebook “. But as time goes on, the challenge begins to reveal itself. The initial enthusiasm starts to wane, and you realize that sustaining the same energy becomes harder than you anticipated.
Some people enroll in programming courses full of motivation, only to find themselves struggling to complete them. What happened to that original vision? Where is the strength that powered it? The truth is, learning to program, like any meaningful pursuit, requires not just passion but perseverance. It is easy to be swept away by the thrill of starting something new, but the real test lies in your ability to keep going, even when the excitement fades.
Another problem that arises from the excitement of getting started is that it often leads to unrealistic expectations. In the rush of enthusiasm, many people assume that learning to code will be quick and easy, expecting rapid mastery with minimal setbacks. However, as the complexity of concepts grows and the challenges become more difficult, frustration can set in.
The initial excitement may push you through the basics, but when you hit your first roadblock whether it is debugging an error or understanding abstract concepts like algorithms, or even building a project from scratch, the struggle becomes real. This is the point where many give up, feeling disillusioned or began to complain about the curriculum set of the programs they enrolled into because progress does not come as fast as anticipated.
Moreover, jumping from one language to another to find balance on which you should get started with, chasing trends or testing new technologies can make you to lose focus. Instead of mastering one area, you end up dabbling in many, without making meaningful progress in any. The excitement that once fueled you becomes a distraction, preventing you from developing deep expertise in a single language or framework.
This cycle can be demotivating, and the vision you had at the start begins to blur. You wonder, “What happened to the clarity I had when I began? Why does it feel so difficult now? “The reality is, while the excitement of starting something new is powerful, it cannot carry you through the inevitable challenges. Progress in programming, like in any discipline, requires patience, focus, and resilience.
How to Overcome the Challenges Involved in the Excitement of Getting Started
Overcoming the challenges that come with the initial excitement of starting something new, like learning to code, requires both mindset shifts and practical strategies. Here are some ways to navigate these obstacles:
Set Realistic Expectations: Understanding that mastery takes time, the excitement of learning something new can be motivating, but it is important to balance that enthusiasm with patience. Set small, achievable goals instead of expecting immediate success. Progress may be delay but consistency is the way out.
Embrace the learning curriculum: Every new skil comes with a learning curve. Expect mistakes and failures along the way, they are natural part of the process. instead of feeling defeated, view these setbacks as an opportunities to grow. For each error or challenges you come across it teaches you something valuable.
Focus on one thing at a time: Avoid jumping from stack to another just because it is trending. Pick one language or area to master and stick with it until you are comfortable. The depth of a knowledge is more valuable than breadth when you are starting out.
Break projects into smaller tasks: Tackling a large project can make you feel overwhelming, especially if you are still fresh to the system. Breaking it down into smaller, manageable task and while achieving each task embrace the moment as those small wins will keep you motivated as you progress.
Stay consistent: The initial burst of excitement might fade, but consistency is what will carry you through. Set aside regular time learning, even when you are not feeling as enthusiastic. Over time, the routine will become a habit and you will find a satisfaction in your progress
Find a support system: Joining a community of learners, getting an accountability partner or finding a mentor can make a big difference. Sharing the challenges and celebrating wins with others helps you accountable and motivated. It’s easier to stay on track when you have a support system.
Remember your why: When motivation wanes, remind yourself why you started in the first place. Reconnecting with your original vision or long-termr goals can reignite your drive. Keep your purpose in mind, it will help you push through the difficult moments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey of learning programming is filled with both excitement and challenges. While many embark on this path with high hopes and aspirations, it's crucial to recognize and address the common hurdles that can arise along the way. By setting realistic expectations, embracing the learning process, and seeking support, beginners can cultivate resilience and sustain their motivation. Remember, every expert was once a beginner, and the key to success lies not in avoiding difficulties but in learning to navigate them effectively. As we explore further, we’ll uncover more strategies and insights to empower aspiring and the current programmers in the coming article, helping them to transform their enthusiasm into lasting success in the tech world.
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