[TFE #10] What I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Career in Tech
The internet’s better side, in your inbox from a mindful voice that writes like she talks.
Hey friend,
Can I be vulnerable today? Just this once?
I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting lately on my journey into tech, the wins, the detours, the confusion, and the pressure. And honestly? There’s a bunch of stuff I wish someone had sat me down to say before I got in too deep.
Things I had to learn the hard way. Things I wish someone had whispered when I was doubting myself, feeling behind, or wondering if I had missed some secret memo.
So here it is, raw and unfiltered.
1. Document your work, even when you think no one’s watching.
I used to build and move on. No notes, no posts, no receipts. Just vibes. Now, I’ve forgotten most of those wins, and worse, I couldn’t prove them when it mattered, and that’s when it started hurting badly.
If you are reading this, start journaling your work today. Screenshot your wins. Post short updates. Write reflections. It’s not about bragging; it’s about building your archive and telling your story, especially when future employers or collaborators come looking.
2. Build in public. Share the messy middle.
For years, I was afraid people would think I wasn’t “expert” enough. But when I started sharing my process, questions, and experiments, I found my people and my confidence.
Don’t wait till it’s perfect. Share the process. Let people feel like they’re growing with you. That’s where the connection (and growth) happens.
3. Reach out, but not to everyone.
I used to shoot my shot at everyone. Most didn’t reply. And the ones who did? They weren’t aligned with my niche or journey.
You don’t need a hundred mentors. Just a few who get you. Be specific, lead with value or curiosity, and focus on people who are only a few steps ahead of you on the path you care about.
4. Build projects.
Tutorials are great, but execution is where the magic happens.
Don’t overthink it. Build a fun idea. Solve a small problem. Make your own dashboard. People want to see how you think and solve problems, not just your certificates.
5. Stick to jobs long enough to gain depth, not just “experience.”
Jumping often isn’t always growth. Sometimes, it’s running from discomfort that could’ve made you better.
Stay long enough to lead, to struggle, to learn hard lessons. Give yourself the chance to stretch and evolve. Remember: Depth > clout.
6. Volunteer strategically, not emotionally.
I used to say yes to every volunteer role, thinking it made me look helpful and connected. But most were draining and offered little growth.
Only volunteer for opportunities that align with your long-term goals. Treat it like a real job. Document your impact. Be intentional, not impulsive.
7. Pivot, even when people might judge.
This one is personal. I’ve stayed in roles I didn’t love because I was afraid of looking confused or unserious. But eventually, I realized that no one else was living my life but me.
People will always talk. They’re not paying your bills. You owe yourself peace and purpose. Be kind to yourself. Reflect, adjust, and rebuild. It’s your life.
8. You don’t need to learn everything.
Tech can feel like a never-ending buffet: frontend, backend, AI, cloud, DevOps, no-code, low-code, code-code 😵💫
Pick something. Go deep. Explore slowly. You’re not late; you’re evolving. Focus. Practice. Contribute. Then, pivot if it no longer feels right.
9. Rest is productive.
I thought I had to always be grinding until I burnt out for eight whole months. It made me feel useless and lost. Burnout isn’t ambition. It’s neglect and disrespect to yourself.
Rest intentionally. Protect your energy. You can’t win the long game if you don’t make it to the finish line. So what’s it going to be? Self-love and respect or self-neglect?
10. Your story is enough.
I didn’t study computer science. I studied communication arts at the university. And for the longest time, I thought that disqualified me.
But here’s the truth: people don’t care how you got into the tech space. They care what you bring. And they care about how you make them feel.
Your path is valid, so own your story. It’s still powerful.
So, my friend, if you’re still figuring it out, you’re not behind. You’re not late. You’re just early in your becoming. Take your time. Pivot when you need to. Document everything. And be proud of how far you’ve come already.
You’ve got this. And don’t forget that I’m always rooting for you.
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