How to Be Like Jason: Succeeding in the Workplace as an Independent Programmer by James Kidman

Anyone can image the horror of being a computer programmer, we've all seen the movies and heard the stories, but Jason takes the craft in a different direction. On January 15th 2020 Jason decided to start Totems, a project to build things with the world in mind. As a one man team, he has been working day and night to get this project done, and as of March 8th, he is nearly complete.

For Jason, programming is more than just a job, it's an art form. An expert in React and making products quickly, he is passionate about the creative side of coding. But instead of continuing down the rabbit hole that is the world of programming, Jason has decided it's time to come back to the real work and focus on the task at hand: taking this product to market and selling it.

If you've always wanted to take your programming skills to the next level, become an independent programmer like Jason, and make a difference in this world, then here are some steps you can take to get started:

When you are entering into a world as complex and intimidating as programming, its important to remember your strengths. Take a step back and analyze the tools, techniques and concepts you have already mastered; this will help you make an educated decision on where you should focus your attention.

By focusing on areas that you are naturally good at, you can save a lot of time and energy in the long run.

When you have identified what it is you are good at, choose a project to focus on. Make sure the project is tangible and will actually produce something useful to the world.

Once you have a direction, you can start doing more research and investment. With a focused project under your belt, it’ll be easier to pinpoint what it is you need to learn and which areas can be utilized for success.

Once you have identified what it is you need to learn and what you already know, you can start setting your milestones. Write out the steps you need to get from start to finish and layout a timeline for the project.

By setting a timeline, not only will you stay motivated and organized, but you will also start to see the finish line sooner.

Once, you’ve started to stick to your task and are making progress, you will find yourself needing help every now and then. When you do, don't hesitate to reach out. With today’s technology, getting help is simpler than ever.

Don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with other likeminded programmers. Your skills will go much further if you are collaborating and bouncing ideas off each other.

If you choose to take on a challenge like Jason and become an independent programmer, you can achieve great success in the workplace. After all, anybody can write code, but it takes a special type of person to build something net positive with the world in mind.

Good luck!

Sincerely,

James Kidman