How to Motivate Yourself to Start Coding All the Time

Motivation is a critical factor when beginning any new skill, especially one as complex as programming. If you're feeling unmotivated, it's essential to find activities that genuinely spark your interest. Remember, your time and energy are valuable resources, and you should focus on areas that truly engage you.

Many jobs, hobbies, and games require some level of programming knowledge. For instance, even basic tasks like setting up Microsoft Excel spreadsheets or scheduling events on your computer involve rudimentary coding concepts. Developing these foundational skills can provide a solid base for more complex programming tasks in the future.

Set Yourself Achievable Short-Term Goals

Understanding that programming can be intimidating, especially for beginners, it's crucial to set achievable short-term goals. Starting with simple objectives can help build confidence and create a positive learning environment. For example, I began my programming journey by enrolling in video game studies. The first year consisted of basic programming concepts, with no direct connection to gaming. However, once I mastered basic algorithms and data structures, I decided to create my own ASCII games. In less than a week, I managed to complete my first game, which was a significant morale booster.

These early efforts, although very simple, were crucial in keeping me motivated. I continued to develop more complex games, gradually improving my skills. Later on, I attempted to incorporate graphics into a game, but found the process challenging due to a lack of fundamental knowledge. This experience taught me the importance of setting achievable, iteratively improving goals. A too-broad goal can be overwhelming and discouraging, whereas a clear, small goal allows for rapid progress and satisfaction.

Understanding Your Initial State

When learning a complex skill such as programming, it's common for beginners to feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin. One approach is to start with basic tutorials designed for absolute beginners. As others have suggested, if your goal is to eventually make video games, you shouldn't expect to start at that level. Begin with the basics, such as learning about variables, loops, and basic functions. Then, gradually increase the complexity of your projects as your skills grow.

It's important to acknowledge that some aspects of programming require more time and practice than others. While it's tempting to dive straight into advanced topics or large-scale projects, taking smaller, manageable steps can lead to a smoother learning curve and a better sense of accomplishment. Small, achievable goals help maintain motivation by providing clear paths for improvement and visible progress.

Conclusion

Motivation in learning programming is key, but it requires setting realistic expectations and starting with simple, achievable goals. By breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps, you can build confidence and maintain enthusiasm throughout your learning journey. Whether you aim to create video games or simply want to improve your computer skills, a structured approach with small, incremental goals is the best way to stay motivated and make steady progress.