Should I Quit Programming?
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I don't care if he hates his job. I care that he thinks he's going to get viable advice from a forum on the internet, more specifically, THIS forum. If he doesn't want to clean floors, I'm sure he could find work sweeping standing water off of sidewalks.
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001Well John, I wouldn't go to an Internet forum for career advice, however, I also don't feel the need to abuse others for doing so. Maybe you just care too much. Or maybe you were bullied at school. I can certainly see why you feel the need to quote others as you appear to have nothing of significance to say yourself.
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pseudonym67 wrote:
If you've never liked it quit. If you used to like it but are going through a phase then don't. Only you can decide which is which the trick is in working out which is the right decision for you.
I agree with Brad. This is the best advice.
I didn't get any requirements for the signature
I third that... or fourth it? :D sounds like you're pretty indespensable to your employer so try maybe sticking your neck out a bit and seeing if you can dictate what you do, or maybe ask for another developer for you to project manage. I had to do the most stupid project once and I knew it was a case of bad management, but at the time I thought I either had to do it or would get fired. now of course I realise if I'd have said something I'd have got credit for it, but after it went belly up at the end I had a real job convincing everyone it wasn't my fault.
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What the hell is that supposed to mean? He's got a job, which is a damn site more than a lot of other people can say, and here he is, complaining that it's too hard to keep up. IMHO, he should step aside and give someone a chance that can a) do the job, and b) maintain some level of maturity where work ethics are concerned. Someone that doesn't like their job does a terrible job at it (or just mediocre at best). It's people like me that are expected to come in behind someone like that and clean up their mess. I reserve pity for mistreated dogs, not for quitters.
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001I for one completely agree with you. There are FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR too many bad programmers out there. Anyone who does not *LOVE* programming should find another job IMHO. And BTW it's live to work not the other way round :) If you work to live you don't LOVE programming and should get the f*** out :mad:.
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
:) you are something like me at this time, with the difference that I am freelancer and you are on Job. I also feel many times to quit, but really, dont know what else to do :) the fact is, at this situation, take a little break and then come back. When you are good at something, you start enjoying that (until you have heavy load of work, like 4 projects at a time). Reduce the work load, take a little break, have deap breaths. and think again! If you have any other activity to do, do it. Sameers
FREE MSN Auto Responder[^] Outlook Personal Assistant - Email Manager. Always remind you for your important email tasks History Remember Vendors, NOT Developers
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Wow, I don't know what I did to piss you off. Your user ID is only a couple of months old, so you're either talkin' outa yer ass, or you're yet another mental midget that felt the need to create a new user ID for some half-brained reason. Further, you act as if I give a sh*t about what anyone thinks of what I post here - at least I'll never be seeking advice here about health problems, love life issues, or family interrelationship crap.
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001 -
Well John, I wouldn't go to an Internet forum for career advice, however, I also don't feel the need to abuse others for doing so. Maybe you just care too much. Or maybe you were bullied at school. I can certainly see why you feel the need to quote others as you appear to have nothing of significance to say yourself.
developer6 wrote:
Or maybe you were bullied at school.
I've never been bullied anywhere, at any time.
developer6 wrote:
I can certainly see why you feel the need to quote others as you appear to have nothing of significance to say yourself.
Like you've been a fountain of wisdom yourself, right. Get real.
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001 -
Hmmm, no... I much prefer "assh*le" or "prick".
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001John, I have never written anything in this forum before and usually don't have time to bother with it. But maybe my user is old enough to give me some credability to pass an opinion (but I probably don't have any because I like writing VB). Anyhow, this thread has given me more laughs then the cartoons when I was a kid. There must be something about being an "outlaw programmer" that makes you sensitive but your rant was a cracker. Thanks.
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There are two types of successful programmers; people who love to program and people who love to program. I have been programming professionally for over 35 years and I still program as a hobby in areas and on equipment I don't get to explore at work. As you may surmise I love programming. I have tried other areas of the business -- analysis, system test, customer service, etc. -- and did an adequate job but never quite was as motivated as when I am doing one of my famously shameless hacks to overcome a shortcoming of the language or architecture I am currently dealing with. My mantra is "once you lose your pride the rest is easy". Having said that I have seen equally motivated people in all the other jobs I could only do adequately. The thing that concerns me about what you have said is that you are wondering if you like to program. I have absolutely hated some jobs from time to time, a situation I remedied with another job, but never once questioned if I like to program. I hated my boss, hated the pressure I was under, I hated the unreasonable schedule, I hated a difficult co-worker, but I never hated programming. You must find something you are passionate about, something you really love to do, and the money will follow as you distinguish yourself in that area. The alternative is to work a job you hate and live with all the negative effects on your life. Good luck in deciding. It is never too late to re-invent yourself once you get your priorities right.
Simply Elegant Designs JimmyRopes Designs
Think inside the box! ProActive Secure Systems
I'm on-line therefore I am. JimmyRopesI have to agree with the above. I also have been programming for over 30 years and know how a heavy work load can get you tired and worn down. Sounds like you need a rest. Programming is an addiction. Programmers code because they have no other option. The keyboard allows you to release your artistic talent. As silly as this sounds you might actually need another project. One just for you. When I try to learn a new lanquage I always write code for a subject I love. This inspires me to doodle with the code, and release my inner child. Dont worry too much about learning .net. Microsoft can not even figure out where it is going. Thier quick changes of vision have confused many a programmer. Just stick to what you know and you will be fine. I know many people who are still making a living with Cobal.
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John, I have never written anything in this forum before and usually don't have time to bother with it. But maybe my user is old enough to give me some credability to pass an opinion (but I probably don't have any because I like writing VB). Anyhow, this thread has given me more laughs then the cartoons when I was a kid. There must be something about being an "outlaw programmer" that makes you sensitive but your rant was a cracker. Thanks.
siena wrote:
But maybe my user is old enough to give me some credability to pass an opinion (but I probably don't have any because I like writing VB).
Well, you certainly won't lose man points, but I gotta admit that I've lost a certain amount of respect for you just because of the VB thing. At least you like your job (and you have to REALLY like it if you're coding in VB). :)
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001 -
Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
If this were a different time (i.e. the mid-90's and not the late 2000's) than I would definitely say to just quit and get a new job, but realistically, unless you've got some serious cash reserves, I would keep my eyes open for a "dream job", and otherwise lay low. (Engineers are conservative...) If I were in your position, I would look for a very small company who needs a good all-around computer person. Someone who can write their software and handle their technical support (PC maintenance, setup, servers, Internet, interact with ISPs, etc.). This will definitely cut down the boredom and you'll keep a foot in the programming world and one in the IT world. These jobs are out there. Your best bet is to talk to people with whom you've worked before. Also, take some comfort that people are much more likely to hire someone with a Programming degree and experience to do IT work, rather than someone with an IT degree and experience to do programmer work. Chin up! Stuart
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Marcus Buckingham has written some great books on finding what you like to do. I've heard him speak, and have the "Go Do" book. I'm a SW engineer, the part about my job I like best if the figuring out what is wrong and fixing that, or figuring out some test in SW to detect some problem in the hardware. They are both problem solving. If you were doing something like that, from what you mention, you might be more interested. Mostly, I'd say figure out what you like, and how your particular talents and passions fit with that and pursue that.
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Yes, please quit. It sounds more like you want to quit because it's hard to stay current, and you obviously don't have the mental stamina to do so. Maybe you should seek out a vocation that requires as little mental prowess as possible - like cleaning floors. Dirt never changes, and the process to eliminate it hasn't advanced in almost 5000 years, so it sounds like it's right up your alley.
"Why don't you tie a kerosene-soaked rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat your candy ass..." - Dale Earnhardt, 1997
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"...the staggering layers of obscenity in your statement make it a work of art on so many levels." - Jason Jystad, 10/26/2001Yes, please quit. It sounds more like you want to quit because it's hard to stay current, and you obviously don't have the mental stamina to do so. Maybe you should seek out a vocation that requires as little mental prowess as possible - like cleaning floors. Dirt never changes, and the process to eliminate it hasn't advanced in almost 5000 years, so it sounds like it's right up your alley. ROFL, that's exactly what I would have to stop myself from saying. In his defense, what one of the previous posters said about getting burned out may be his problem. I know for a fact that passion can be sucked dry by crappy management, ridiculous time lines and insane workloads. I'm in a situation like that now. Money is less of an issue than producing a badass product and being able to say that it was the best I could do. I took a job about 6 months ago that has been nothing but unrealistic deadlines and terrible communication. The end result for the last 6-8 projects has been applications I would be embarrassed to be associated with, and over time has made me cynical and bitter. I'm feeling less and less of the passion that I once had and I don't feel that it's my fault. I feel like I need to jump ship before I get to the point where I hate going to work, but that takes time. If you're getting burned out, I would definitely take the previous poster's advice and switch jobs first.
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Yes.
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Take a vacation and get away from Tech for a while (you might just be burnt out). Did programming every excite you? Assess your financial situation cause if you move from what you are doing to what interests you, it will likely mean a pay cut (at very least in the short term). Also consider finding a way to try the "software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support" before jumping it. Perhaps your current employer has such a position that they will let you try for a while, or a part-time job at a local computer shop? It may be that you'd be happier outside of the world of computers, or working as a high level troubleshooter (with direct customer interaction) or marketing agent. Good Luck
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Programming: Love It or Leave It[^]
Todd Smith
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OK Im not going to tell you what you should or shouldn't do that's not my style but I will give you somethings to think about.
NinaWilliam wrote:
Currently, I am holding 4 projects
This is bad not on your part on your managers. It stinks of too much work and not enough programmers and is the quickest way to wear out the programmers. Simply put when you are skipping between projects nothing gets full attention everything is rushed and unfocused there is only one outcome of having this many projects on the go and that is the programmer becomes irritable and bored with the work, any interest in programming begins to fade because the work becomes drudgery and trying to keep to schedules and meet unrealistic requirements.
NinaWilliam wrote:
I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5.
Do you even need to? What is it in your project that requires the upgrade? Or are you simply doing it because it's the latest thing?
NinaWilliam wrote:
Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing.
You probably never will either a lot of stuff in programming languages can be very specialised to specific areas if you dont need it. Get an over view so you know the basics but dont sweat the details until it becomes relevant to your work. There will always you be areas of programming you know little or nothing about, either because you have forgotten it through not using it for so long or because it was never relevant to your work in the first place. A good programmer knows what their weak points are as well as their strong points. I dont mean this as criticism I personally can come up with quite an impressive list of technologies I have worked with and studied but a good web programmer or graphics programmer can lose me in seconds because Ive never worked or studied those areas so my knowledge is basic at best.
NinaWilliam wrote:
Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
If you've never liked it quit. If you used to like it but are going through a phase then don't. Only you can decide which is which the trick is in working out which is the right decision for you.
pseudonym67
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John, I have never written anything in this forum before and usually don't have time to bother with it. But maybe my user is old enough to give me some credability to pass an opinion (but I probably don't have any because I like writing VB). Anyhow, this thread has given me more laughs then the cartoons when I was a kid. There must be something about being an "outlaw programmer" that makes you sensitive but your rant was a cracker. Thanks.
I agree - sometimes everyone tries to be too damn polite
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Consider asking what you would rather be doing than what you don't want to do. Consider books on self assesment that can help you find something that you would rather do. And be sure that you just don't work for an a-hole at a dumb company.
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Hi there, I need your help and advice in this… I have a programming analyst diploma with GPA 3.8. I work as a programmer for 4 years in a medical corporation. I am successful at my work and I get every task given to me done. Currently, I am holding 4 projects. The problem is: I am not interested in programming I just do my job because I have to. I don’t feel I love my job. I don’t like going to work. I find it very hard to move from .NET framework 1.1 to 2.0 to 3.5. Even if I start reading a programming book or article I don’t really understand every thing. I find my self interested more in software installing and troubleshooting, Computer maintenance, user support. Should I quit programming because I don’t like it? Please I seek your advice.
Yes, you should try -- there's nothing worse than grinding away at a job you don't like year after year. If you can afford the finnancial risk, then just go for it, preferably inside your existing company where you still have friendly managers that might be willing to bring you back in if you're wrong. My best career move was to take a "temporary" job in a group writing applications from my dream job as an entry level person in the company's OS group. After a few months, I didn't want to go back, which was a good thing because because it had silently become permanent. Maybe it was just the OS group manager's way of getting rid of me, but since I'd already done what his more senior people told him couldn't be done, maybe not. Doesn't matter anyway, I'm much happier and employed than if I'd stayed.
patbob