I believe that you can become a software developer. Do you believe?

It's a challenging and confusing moment for software engineers. This has always been true, I think. Constant, disruptive change - in technology, business, and society - is the norm in this industry. I have watched these cycles repeat throughout my 25+ year career.

Despite the stories that some try to tell you, this has never been a stable industry. Working as a software developer has never been a sure bet. And the path into - and through - this career has rarely been paved or mapped.

One other thing has also been true throughout my career. Businesses need people who truly understand technology. They need people who can make good decisions about technology. Especially in the confusing sociotechnical environment of modern business.

These two truths will not likely change anytime soon. Technology will always change, often in disruptive ways. And businesses will always need people who understand technology. The exact details will constantly vary. From moment to moment, business to business, person to person. But these truths will remain.

So let us focus on the fundamentals.

One first fundamental is this:

If you wish to become one of the people who understand technology, you need self belief. And a few other things. But definitely self belief.

You need self belief, tenacity, curiosity, patience, and pragmatism. You must believe that you can succeed. You must be tenacious and persistent. Able to work hard and to handle many setbacks. You must be curious, to seek the truth about technology, business, society, and yourself. You must be patient, accepting that this is a slow, lifelong journey. And you must be pragmatic in the choices that you make. It's not a quick sprint or an easy win.

If you believe in your ability, and your self worth. If you are tenacious. If you can cultivate the qualities of curiosity, patience, and pragmatism. If you can do each of these, then you can build a successful career in software engineering.

You can do this. Even in the current environment of AI hype and economic uncertainty. It won't be easy, but you can do it, and I'm here to help you.

Read on for some tips to get you going, or get in touch for some immediate help on your journey.