Am i Doing Right | Becoming a Software engineer or Programmer

Are you wondering if you’re on the right path to becoming a software engineer or programmer? This post explores the journey, challenges, and mindset needed to grow in coding and software development. Learn what skills matter, how to approach learning, and ways to ensure your efforts lead to real progress in your programming career.

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Abhinav

9/23/20252 min read

black laptop computer on white textile
black laptop computer on white textile

That’s a question every beginner asks: if I am choosing the software engineering or programming field, or starting to develop an interest in programming, or simply following the trend of society’s fascination with technology—am I doing the right thing?

First of all, you need to understand that technology is one of the fastest-growing fields in the world. Choosing this path means you will face some of the toughest challenges and the highest competition to land your dream job or achieve your career goals. The key point is this: if you are pursuing programming out of genuine interest, you will be able to handle the ups and downs of this journey. But if you are only going along with the trend, thinking that programming has a huge scope, you may struggle to stay motivated. It’s not about the scope; it’s about passion.

For example, if you love singing and practice every day because you enjoy it, you will naturally learn and improve. But if you only sing to become famous, you may stop when reality doesn’t meet your expectations. Similarly, in programming, interest and curiosity will carry you forward even when the challenges are high. Without genuine passion, the journey becomes difficult and unsatisfying.

As Ellen Ullman wrote in Life in Code:
"Curse of the self-taught: fear that you know only points here and there, islands of knowledge, and between them are chasms into which you will fall in humiliating failure, a fear that followed me from the first time I learned how to code."

Indeed, you will face difficulties in growing as a programmer. Over time, it can feel tempting to stick only to the basics you know, avoiding advanced topics because learning something new requires leaving your comfort zone. But staying in your comfort zone will limit your growth. The difference between success and stagnation is whether you follow your interest intelligently and consistently push yourself to learn and improve.

So, the short answer to your question is: don’t choose a career just to please society or follow trends. Choose programming—or any field—because it genuinely interests you. With passion and dedication, you can develop skills that few others have, and achieve success in ways that truly matter. Follow your interest, approach it with intelligence, and carefully choose the best path for your future.

Thanks for reading my blog. See you next time!