As developers, we’re constantly on a journey to improve our skills and stay up-to-date with the latest technologies. One important aspect of growth is learning from others who are more knowledgeable and experienced than us. In this blog post, I want to emphasize the importance of not settling for being the best in your current circle, but instead seeking out opportunities to learn from a diverse group of people.
A Humble Beginning
I still remember my first exposure to programming. It was back in 1997 when a friend introduced me to a Linux computer. As we explored its functionalities, my friend remarked, “You don’t know how to program the computer, do you?” That moment made me realize just how much I had yet to learn. I was a novice, with my understanding of programming at a completely different level.
Learning from Peers
During my university years, I found myself surrounded by highly skilled peers. As the “worst” student in my group, I had the opportunity to glean knowledge from those who excelled academically. This environment fostered healthy competition and motivated me to optimize my own abilities. I learned to value being in a challenging setting, where I could grow alongside individuals who possessed exceptional technical skills and were also great team players.
Seeking a Diverse Learning Network
As I transitioned into the working world, I actively sought out opportunities to work in teams where my colleagues possessed specialized skills that surpassed my own. Collaborating with individuals who were experts in specific areas of development was not only intellectually stimulating but also incredibly valuable for my personal growth. However, after a few years, I found myself working as a freelancer, no longer surrounded by a team. I realized that I needed to create my own learning network to fuel my ongoing development.
Building a Learning Network
Wondering how to find your own community of learning? Here are a few avenues that have worked for me:
1. Podcasts: I subscribe to nearly 200 podcasts covering a wide range of topics. From technical subjects like JavaScript programming to digital marketing and stories of solopreneurs and small business owners, there’s a wealth of knowledge waiting to be discovered.
2. Blogs: I make it a point to read extensively from various blogs, which provide unique insights into different areas of expertise.
3. Twitter: By following knowledgeable and inspiring individuals on Twitter, either through direct follow or curated lists, I am constantly exposed to diverse perspectives and valuable information.
4. Books: Books are an excellent source of in-depth knowledge on specific topics. I make sure to include them in my reading list to expand my understanding.
5. YouTube: Watching coding screencasts and conference talks related to JavaScript and other technical subjects has been both instructive and entertaining for me. Additionally, I enjoy exploring unrelated content, like hiking or camping videos, as they offer a refreshing break and help broaden my horizons.
Remember, this list is not exhaustive, as there are many other avenues for learning. While I haven’t mentioned conferences and events, they can be valuable opportunities for in-person interaction and learning.
The Learning Ratio
To effectively utilize the knowledge acquired from various sources, I maintain a balanced approach that consists of three elements:
1. Learning: Devote one-third of your time to actively seeking out new information and expanding your knowledge base.
2. Practicing: Apply the concepts you’ve learned by putting them into practice. This hands-on experience helps solidify your understanding and skills.
3. Teaching: Share your knowledge with others, whether through mentorship, writing articles, or presenting talks. Teaching not only reinforces what you’ve learned but also contributes to the growth of the community.
Even if certain learnings are not immediately applicable, storing them for future use ensures nothing goes to waste.
Embrace a Growth Mindset
In conclusion, it is essential to avoid complacency and strive for continuous improvement. Don’t settle for being the best in your current circle or among your peers, as this can hinder your growth. Thanks to the internet, we have access to a vast community of experts who can offer insights and teachings beyond our immediate surroundings. Embrace the opportunity to learn from others, and you’ll find yourself on an exciting path of personal and professional growth.
Tags: professional development, growth mindset, continuous learning, learning from others, technical skills