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Discussion on: #CNC2021 "Code More" Mission 1 Submission Thread

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mmjordan11 profile image
Matt Jordan

Parenting is in my near future. I'm curious what tips you have to deal with this added layer of responsibilities and continuing your self learning. I would guess part of being successful in parenting/coding is sacrificing some of your hobbies to make room for coding?

Part of my assumptions and solutions is Giving myself the grace to skip a day when something else is more important than coding, and then being disciplined about effectively using the days that I actually have time. Maybe this would help in your situation too?

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anitabe404 profile image
Anita Beauchamp

Some tips for parenting & coding:

  • Accept that things will change. Sometimes we try to tell ourselves that it won't be that different or that big of a change, but it really is (especially if you're having a newborn as opposed to adopting/caring for an older child).
  • Get as much support from family, friends, and paid help as you can. There are only so many hours in the day, and you are often exhausted for many of them. Having someone to help with childcare, cooking meals, running errands, and/or cleaning makes a huge difference.
  • Adjust your expectations to match the season of life that you're in. There may be some days where you're too tired to get everything done. You may also experience brain fog or notice that you're not retaining things like you used to. It's okay. Just scale back, keep studying, and keep going.
  • Identify what matters to you & seek balance. In the long-term (10, 20, 30 years from now), what do you want to look back and remember about this time? And also, what helps you decompress and feel happy & well? As much as you can, balance your long-term goals with your short-term needs. Maybe you have to spend less time on a hobby or coding for right now. Maybe you're not as involved with your child now so that you can code, get your new job, and have more time later. Only you can determine what's right.

All the best! I hope some of this helps.