Debugging code can be one of the most frustrating parts of programming. As a developer based in Ghana, I've had my fair share of late nights spent tracking down elusive bugs. When a piece of code doesn't work as expected, it's easy to get annoyed and even question your abilities.
However, it's important to remember that debugging is a key part of the learning process. The best programmers aren't the ones who write perfect code; they're the ones who know how to methodically work through problems.
Debugging teaches you how your code really works under the hood. Like learning a new language, you have to make mistakes first before truly understanding things.
The key is to reframe debugging as a positive challenge, rather than a personal failure. I try to approach each bug with curiosity - why is this happening and what can I learn from it? This growth mindset helps me stay calm and focused on the problem at hand.
I also take breaks when needed. If I'm clearly too frustrated to think straight, I'll take a short walk or listen to some afrobeats music. Stepping away often allows me to return with fresh eyes and new insights.
It also helps to debug collaboratively. As developers in Ghana, we like to debug together on voice calls.
Explaining your problem out loud and hearing another perspective can reveal overlooked solutions. Don't be afraid to ask for a second pair of eyes!
With patience and the right mindset, debugging can actually be fun. There's no better feeling than finally squashing that pesky bug. Each fixed issue makes you a stronger programmer.
Even after years of coding, I still get excited when I fix a tough error. That's the beauty of a growth mindset - there's always more to learn if you stay open and positive.
Feel free to connect with me on Twitter @elliot_mlaidv
Top comments (0)