3 Things I Wish I Would Have Known Starting Off as a Programmer

Let's face it. Whether you are well into your career or just starting off as a programmer, the sheer amount there is to learn can be overwhelming! Here are three things that I wish I would have known early on to stave off the dreaded imposter syndrome:

1. We all use Google!! There is no such thing as a developer that has some bank of endless knowledge that they rely upon. Sooner or later you will have to specialize in something, and come to terms with the fact that you can't learn it all. Don't stress. We are all faking it to some extent.

2. Focus on learning software design principles. You'll realize sooner or later that frameworks come and go, but a deep understanding of how to design software continues to stay relevant. There's nothing wrong with going through a coding bootcamp, but learning a given tech stack will only take you so far.

3. Learn to love learning. There is no college or bootcamp that will teach you everything you will need to know for your entire career. You have to learn and innovate as you go along. Be humble, and realize that even the most junior programmer can teach you new things if you're willing to listen.

Hopefully this helps you even a little as you continue your journey in software. Ultimately, who doesn't love solving problems, and getting paid to do it? I hope you the best!