Balancing Act: Time Management Tips for Coding Beginners
The past week has been strenuous on my emotional health for a variety of reasons that will bore you to tears. So, we won't go there. However, we will go in the direction that offers you something helpful, based on what I learned when I was a code newbie. Take note of these three crucial bullet points:
You must make time to code.
You must make time to read.
You must make time to care for yourself.
Keep reading for a BONUS TIP!
Making Time to Code: 30-45 minutes
Find your 'squad' at Career Karma!
Since my schedule is beyond busy, I still want to learn more about coding and programming languages. The easiest way for me to get my daily dose of code is through apps on my phone. Right now, I'm using Grasshopper and SoloLearn to learn and practice writing JavaScript. It only takes me 30-45 minutes to digest quick bites of code.
Over the weekend and in the evenings, I can give my full attention to studying. It's a daily commitment that's made simple with super cool apps designed for learners like us!
When I'm not reading about coding, learning code on Grasshopper and SoloLearn, or obsessing about Bunny McGarry's next move, I'm learning from coders and programmers via Twitter and Career Karma.
I've had the great fortune to meet some incredible people on both platforms. I am looking forward to being just one small part of a large team of coders! We've already started the process of learning about various aspects of the project and are using Slack and GitHub to communicate as we build.
If you're new to coding and programming, you'll need to bounce your ideas off of and have your burning questions answered by people in the know. I've chatted with newbies like me, junior and senior developers, and engineers, all of whom are very smart and genuinely enthusiastic about the tech industry. It's very encouraging, especially if you've been feeling isolated like I was just a week ago.
Making Time to Read: 15-30 minutes
Do you scoff when you see a meme flash across your timeline suggesting that the smartest, savviest people in the world read more often than not? Do you cringe at this trite, frequently clichéd sentiment sweeping the web? Well, you're not alone. In fact, I was right there with you until I realized that I really should read more books.
You see, my eyes are drawn to quick and easy digital content that I can save in a folder and revisit later. However, the intellectual appetizers I enjoy via Hackernoon and Medium content authors need the accompaniment of the main course: a fulfilling, good old-fashioned book.
Do what I do:
Download apps Audible, Blinkist, Goodreads, and Kindle to promote daily reading.
Make a Book wishlist on Amazon, an easy way to quickly purchase a new book in one click.
Libby is a digital librarian app that connects you to your local library even when you're not physically able to go there.
There are several coding and programming must-reads out there. I recommend starting with "Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship” by Robert C. Martin. From my research, virtually every junior and senior programmer has this book in their arsenal.
If you haven't already, read Vinicius Brasil's 'The Book Every Programmer Should Read.' In it, Brasil summarizes why we all need Uncle Bob's masterwork in our beginner stage.
In addition to deep diving into coding and programming books, I recommend sticking with your favorite genres. Crime novels are my thing, so I've immersed myself in a fictitiously crime-riddled, modern-day Dublin via the imagination of Caimh McDonnell. I've flown through Angels in the Moonlight and am now attempting to blaze through Last Orders. Both books are part of The Dublin Trilogy, a hilarious thrill ride for those of us who love a big laugh with their crime novels.
Making Time for Self-Care: 45 minutes
Hanging out in the Hill Country
One thing you must make time for is yourself. This was a difficult lesson for me to learn this week. Why? I had initially wanted to immerse myself in coding and reading fully, but I made a significant professional transition (which is a whole other blog post to come in the weeks to follow), and it took a lot out of me.
My headspace needed clearing, so I did that. I took several deep breaths, meditated every day, and slept... oooohhhhh how I slept.
The result was a wholly rested and enthusiastic new me! I gained a fresh perspective on my life and career trajectory.
Hundreds of programming professionals post about their gains during the #100DaysofCode challenge. I want to be like them! However, I accept that taking a much-needed break for my mental health was imperative. I'd like to encourage everyone to do the same when necessary.
Just remember to get right back into coding and programming when you're all done!
🌟 BONUS TIP: Make Time for Family and Friends - as much time as it takes!
Going a little bonkers from the isolating work of coding and learning to program? Connect with family and friends! This valuable lesson helped me strengthen my relationships in just a few days. It also helped me get outside my head (and my home).
I also learned that working and learning to code is more fun when you're participating in these activities with other people. Take a break and spend time with the most important people in your life.
I'm delighted to have spent time with friends this week and to have connected with my family members on a deeper level. You'll benefit from doing this as it bolsters gratitude and fosters essential relationships.
