Developers love learning how to build things, but understanding why they’re building them is what makes the work meaningful. Understanding the “why” behind your code will make you a better developer, teammate, and leader.
You weren’t hired to move Jira tickets. You were hired to solve real problems. If you want to level up, start thinking in outcomes, not just checkboxes.
Starting computer science in college? You don’t have to know everything. Focus on learning how to learn, how to debug, and how to grow into a real developer, not just someone who can write some code.
You don’t have to be obsessed with your job to be great at it. Passion fades. But showing up, doing good work, and giving a damn about the people around you? That sticks. And that’s enough.
Being heads-down is how you build real skill. But if you never look up, you might miss the chance to grow, lead, or even breathe. Here’s how to stay focused and intentional about your path in tech.