If you're writing code because you feel pressured I think that could lead to quite an unhealthy situation mentally. Code for work, code for fun, just don't code without passion...
We shouldn't code outside of work just to stay competitive; that very quickly leads to burnout and extra stress. I only code outside of work when I feel like it, not because I feel like I "have to".
Do you truly believe everyone who codes professionally is passionate about coding? I think that's a spurious claim. And coding outside of work just to stay competitive is how most people prepare for coding interviews.
Im sure they exist but I haven't personally worked with anyone who got into coding because they just needed some sort of job.
Most of us love what we do every day, and we are in a privileged position as I don't think there are many jobs out there where you get to do what you love for good money.
Don't get me wrong, sometimes I have to slog for an upcoming interview or something. But outside of those instances, when I'm writing code in my free time and hating it, I feel like something was wrong and usually means I need to take a break for a bit.
@anujpancholi
You are right, I was being idealistic. Not everybody has the luxury to only code outside of work when they choose to.
I would still caution those people to be mindful of their mental health when practicing for interviews and such. If someone doesn't enjoy coding, but still spends a large amount of free time doing it, they are even more prone to excess stress. Spending work hours and free hours on things we don't enjoy will make us miserable in the long run, and my hope for those people is that they're able to find a career where they are not only effective, but also happy.
On reflection of my last comment I may have also have been a bit naive so I apologise. My point was really that we should be conscious of things that affect our mental wellbeing.
We seem to have wildly different experiences. I know maybe 2 people who are truly passionate. It's just about making a half-decent career for everyone else. Anyway, I'm glad you've found a passion in your career as a coder.
@cariehl
You are so right about developers and their mental health. We should just take menta health as important if not more important than physical health.
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If you're writing code because you feel pressured I think that could lead to quite an unhealthy situation mentally. Code for work, code for fun, just don't code without passion...
This is very important, and a great comment.
We shouldn't code outside of work just to stay competitive; that very quickly leads to burnout and extra stress. I only code outside of work when I feel like it, not because I feel like I "have to".
Do you truly believe everyone who codes professionally is passionate about coding? I think that's a spurious claim. And coding outside of work just to stay competitive is how most people prepare for coding interviews.
Im sure they exist but I haven't personally worked with anyone who got into coding because they just needed some sort of job.
Most of us love what we do every day, and we are in a privileged position as I don't think there are many jobs out there where you get to do what you love for good money.
Don't get me wrong, sometimes I have to slog for an upcoming interview or something. But outside of those instances, when I'm writing code in my free time and hating it, I feel like something was wrong and usually means I need to take a break for a bit.
@anujpancholi You are right, I was being idealistic. Not everybody has the luxury to only code outside of work when they choose to.
I would still caution those people to be mindful of their mental health when practicing for interviews and such. If someone doesn't enjoy coding, but still spends a large amount of free time doing it, they are even more prone to excess stress. Spending work hours and free hours on things we don't enjoy will make us miserable in the long run, and my hope for those people is that they're able to find a career where they are not only effective, but also happy.
On reflection of my last comment I may have also have been a bit naive so I apologise. My point was really that we should be conscious of things that affect our mental wellbeing.
We seem to have wildly different experiences. I know maybe 2 people who are truly passionate. It's just about making a half-decent career for everyone else. Anyway, I'm glad you've found a passion in your career as a coder.
Put it so nicely
@cariehl You are so right about developers and their mental health. We should just take menta health as important if not more important than physical health.