As I continue to keep developing and building in different, new technologies this realization of not needing to know it all as a developer has become quite an important part to fighting off imposter syndrome for me.
Being a fullstack developer, it can be so overwhelming to try and be on top of every new dotnet version, node version, react version etc etc. You get the message...
But something that I have come to the realization in myself whilst working on new builds recently is that:
It's okay not to know everything.
You will come across specialists in areas that know the complex, and make it simple. That's fine! They have chosen to be an absolute master at that specific area of development. Don't compare yourself, you'll never win. Trust me.
But what can you do to make sure that you keep up to date whilst not falling behind?
Build in your own time with new technologies.
This to me has been so beneficial throughout my career as a developer so far. Never stop building. I find that when I want to use a new technology, I will build a new app with it. Specifically a copy of an existing application that you can use to experiment with technologies and integrations.
For example:
I want to play with react native and brush up on my styling as I feel I am so behind on the trends.
Brilliant! Go build a copy of Instagram in react native, this will cover building in a new technology and experimenting with styles.
Take exams from technology providers.
This has been a great way for me to learn new things and squash that feeling of being an imposter. This is because the gratification of being certified by a provider allows you to know that the hard work you put in is recognized officially. Rather than relying upon yourself to validate this.
For example:
I want to learn more about Azure as a developer so that I don't feel I am behind with the trend when developing in their cloud.
Brilliant! Go take an exam such as Azure Developer Associate to learn more and validate your knowledge.
These are two great things that you can do to bolster your knowledge and have helped me. They may or may not work for you but take the personal time to figure this out. I understand life can be difficult and things get in the way and that's fine. As GaryVee well says:
Macro patience, micro speed.
Aim for the long term, becoming the best developer you possibly can be. Unrealistic timelines and expectations are going to set you up for disappointment. But make sure you push yourself :)
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