Two years ago, I wrote my first line of JavaScript. Today, I’m reflecting on this journey.
Where I Started
March 2021: I knew nothing about programming. HTML looked like gibberish.
Where I Am Now
I can build full-stack applications. I understand JavaScript, React, Node.js, databases, TypeScript, Git, and more.
I’m not an expert, but I’m no longer a beginner.
What’s Changed
Technical skills: I’ve learned multiple languages, frameworks, and tools.
Problem-solving: I can break down complex problems systematically.
Learning ability: I can pick up new technologies faster now.
Confidence: I’m not afraid of new challenges anymore.
What Hasn’t Changed
Imposter syndrome: I still feel like I don’t know enough.
The learning never stops: There’s always more to learn.
Debugging is still frustrating: Some bugs still take hours to fix.
Biggest Lessons
Consistency matters more than intensity: Coding a little every day beats marathon sessions.
Build things: Projects teach more than tutorials.
Fundamentals are crucial: Understanding JavaScript deeply made everything else easier.
Ask for help: Struggling alone wastes time.
Delete practice projects: Quality over quantity in your portfolio.
What I’m Proud Of
- Building dozens of projects
- Learning continuously for two years
- Not giving up when it got hard
- Developing a systematic approach to learning
What I’m Working On Now
- Deepening TypeScript knowledge
- Learning testing properly
- Building more complex projects
- Preparing for job applications
Advice to My Past Self
Start building immediately: Don’t wait until you “know enough.”
Learn fundamentals first: Don’t rush to frameworks.
It’s supposed to be hard: Confusion is part of learning.
Two years goes fast: Keep going, you’ll be amazed at your progress.
Looking Forward
I’m excited about:
- Applying for junior positions soon
- Contributing to open source
- Building more ambitious projects
- Continuing to learn and grow
Two years in, I’m still learning, still building, still growing. The journey continues.