Therapy for Senior Software Engineer’s Lagging: Problem Solving Vs Portfolio Project -A Journey of Renewal and Resilience

In this blog, you will find a note from a senior software engineer, about the necessity of breaking ego, and mastering pro practices.

In the fast-paced world of software engineering, even experienced professionals like myself hit roadblocks from time to time. These moments of feeling stuck are opportunities for reflection and growth. This note, drawn from my journey, offers a practical guide to overcoming challenges and refreshing your skills.

#BreakingEgo: Embracing Growth

To truly excel in your field, you must confront your weaknesses head-on. Embracing your shortcomings is not a sign of weakness but rather a demonstration of strength. I’ve had to shatter my ego time and again to accept new knowledge and push the boundaries of my expertise. Sometimes, I deliberately put myself in challenging situations, like standing shoulder-to-shoulder with junior colleagues in interviews, not for the sake of landing a job but for the sheer thrill of learning. And let me tell you, it’s exhilarating.

It’s a call to break free from the suffocating constraints of ego and instead embrace a mindset characterized by ceaseless curiosity and a hunger for learning. Breaking your ego isn’t easy. It requires humility and a willingness to start from scratch when necessary. But here’s the truth: there are no shortcuts to mastery. You must have the courage to strip away the layers of arrogance and return to the basics, no matter how daunting it may seem. It’s in those moments of humility that true growth and transformation occur. So, embrace the discomfort, embrace the journey, and embrace the opportunity to become the best version of yourself.

#ArtOfProblemSolving: A Paradigm Shift

Back in high school, I stumbled upon the “Art of Problem Solving” book, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. It completely revolutionized my approach to problem-solving.

Yeah, problem-solving itself is a different ball game. You have memorized a lot about algorithms and data structure like a nerd, but that doesn’t even count in the real world unless you don’t know how to think. Problem-solving teaches you how to think. It’s about cultivating a mindset that can tackle real-world challenges head-on, navigating through complexities with ingenuity and finesse. It’s about nurturing a profound understanding of how to approach problems — a skill often overlooked in real-world contexts.

So, stop obsessing over boosting your GitHub repository count. Instead, take a break and dive into problem-solving. Leetcode might be a great start. Then, once you’ve sharpened your skills, start ramping up your project portfolio again. Trust me, a better problem solver gets things done faster.

#LeetCodeJourney: Starting Afresh

In my journey, I’ve found that taking a temporary pause in the pursuit of GitHub repository numbers can be liberating. Redirecting focus towards platforms like LeetCode for a fresh problem-solving journey has proven invaluable. I believe that becoming a proficient problem solver ultimately accelerates project execution, paving the way for more impactful contributions.

#SeniorWisdom: A Journey Through Tech Stacks

Trust me, I am a senior software engineer, and I’ve weathered my fair share of criticism for exploring different tech stacks. But you know what? Despite the challenges and criticisms, delving into various tech stacks was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I wasn’t always at the top of my game. I struggled in my classes, facing numerous setbacks and failures. However, those experiences taught me valuable lessons. I’ve delved into mechanical components, and dabbled in robotics, and yes, I’ve failed spectacularly along the way. Yet, through every stumble and setback, I’ve embraced relentless learning and revisited fundamental concepts time and again. It’s this resilience that fuels my journey towards mastery.

#InterviewInsights: Learning Alongside Juniors

Breaking down ego barriers, I’ve often found myself standing in interview lines alongside juniors and interns, driven not by job prospects but by the sheer joy of learning. This practice serves as a poignant reminder that humility is the cornerstone of growth — a lesson I carry with me every step of the way.

#CourageToRestart: A Call to Action

Concluding with a powerful message, I acknowledge the challenge of restarting. Yet, I firmly believe that true resilience lies in recognizing the need to start from the basics. The courage to embark on this journey is the key to reaching new heights in one’s career — a testament to the transformative power of continuous learning and self-discovery.

In essence, this note serves as a therapeutic guide for senior software engineers, urging them to break away from ego-driven pursuits, embrace the art of problem-solving, and summon the courage to embark on a journey of self-renewal. It’s a testament to the resilience required to navigate the complexities of the tech landscape and emerge stronger, wiser, and more empowered.