DEV Community

Discussion on: Jack Of All Trades or Master of One?

Collapse
 
ssimontis profile image
Scott Simontis

I am similar; I learn anything that interests me. I ended up becoming a full-stack developer. Full-stack in the sense of front-end, back-end, databases, web servers, CI/CD processes, analytics, marketing, etc.

I hear a lot of people talk about how you are holding yourself back if you don't specialize in something, but that has not necessarily been my experience. Maybe I could find jobs a lot easier if I was easily marketable as a generic developer, but I think the job search process moves too fast already so I like having more time to find the perfect opportunity for me.

I make sure to apply my knowledge to address my fears of wasted time. I use org mode in Emacs to document things I learn, and I try to find projects that let me use thw knowledge. For example, I have two servers that act as a homelab so I can learn system administration and DevOps, so I save all my scripts I use for operations and document problems I encounter when doing HW updates or network configuration so I don't make the same mistakes later on.

It has helped me find really cool niche opportunities. I am trying to get into freelancing, but I was contacted about a developer security specialist role which sounds like it might be really cool!

If you're happy, nothing else matters. "Best" practices and general advice that gets echoed is very impersonal; only you can be a light unto yourself.

Collapse
 
katieadamsdev profile image
Katie Adams

I like your thoughts on the job search process. It's nice to be in a position where I'm privileged enough to be able to step back and look for the opportunities that really interest me.

And I can seriously relate to the fear of wasted time. When I'm not working, I'm project-hunting, or practicing my skills. My other half thinks I'm mad!!!

That developer security specialist role sounds excellent! Especially since they contacted you about it. Amazing! I really hope things work out for you - either with the application or the freelancing! :D

'"Best" practices and general advice that gets echoed is very impersonal; only you can be a light unto yourself.' ~ hi yes hello I'd like this on a teacup coaster please XD