The Quest for Average: Replacing Competition with Collaboration in Software Development

Aspiring software developers often find themselves comparing their progress and abilities to those of seemingly flawless 'geniuses'. A common question arises: Is it problematic to aspire to become an average software developer, rather than constantly striving to outshine the elite? Let's explore this perspective and how it can positively influence your journey in software development.

Understanding the Journey of a Thousand Miles

The quote, 'the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,' aptly describes the incremental nature of skill acquisition in software development. Those revered as 'geniuses' likely invested considerable time and effort into honing their craft. Their success is the result of persistence and dedication, not mere innate talent.

Consider a scenario where an average developer and a 'genius' both face a bug to debug. The 'genius' might solve it faster, but remember, a dedicated and determined average developer could also find the solution, given enough time and the right tools.

There is a popular saying: 'The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried.' This highlights that even those considered skilled or talented also encounter setbacks and learn from their mistakes. The key is to persist and keep learning.

Recognizing Average Talent

It's essential to recognize that the majority of software developers fall into the 'average' category. This does not diminish their value; they still solve problems and contribute to the field. In fact, many companies are in dire need of dependable, proficient software developers who can tackle everyday challenges effectively.

According to Lena Keri, a balanced observation on the role of 'geniuses' is quite apt. While the number of 'geniuses' might be smaller than commonly perceived, the majority of developers often find themselves in the average range. This means you will be competing with other average individuals, which can be both motivating and achievable.

Moments of Genius and Creative Solutions

The idea that only a select few can achieve 'moments of genius' is a myth. Any developer can experience insightful leaps to creative solutions. These moments of realization can be incredibly rewarding, especially when others acknowledge them.

Anecdotal evidence from decades past supports this perspective. In the early days of the digital interactive industry, recognizing the importance of standardization and frameworks was a key insight. The underlying concepts of these tools have since evolved into superior solutions, proving that even seemingly average developers can make significant contributions.

Competition vs. Collaboration in Software Development

Is there a problem with being an average software developer? Not necessarily. However, the mindset of competition with 'geniuses' can be detrimental. Instead of striving to outshine others, focus on collaborative problem-solving and continuous learning.

The goal of any software developer should be to solve problems, and averaging this outcome can be far more realistic and achievable.

Advise for Aspiring Software Developers

If you are aiming to become an average software developer, here are some pieces of advice:

Focus on learning new skills and staying updated with the latest developments in the field. Keep your code and solutions simple and maintainable. Simplicity often wins the day in software development. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and use them as stepping stones to greater accomplishments. Embrace collaboration and work together with your peers to tackle complex issues.

By taking these steps, you can build a solid foundation and contribute effectively to the development community.

Good luck on your journey to becoming a competent and valued software developer!