I appreciate your honest wakeup call about the realities of starting a career in coding. It’s refreshing to see someone highlight that coding isn’t a quick fix or an overnight success story. Too often, the narrative around tech careers paints an overly rosy picture that can set unrealistic expectations.

Your point about the difficulty junior developers face in the current job market is especially important. Many newcomers underestimate how challenging it is to break in, particularly when balancing other life obligations. Persistence and continued learning are indeed crucial.

That said, I think it’s also worth emphasizing that while coding is rewarding, success isn’t guaranteed solely by sticking it out. Networking, building practical projects, and gaining real-world experience can often be just as important as time spent learning theory. The journey isn’t just about “sticking it out,” but actively engaging with the community and opportunities.

Thanks for sharing a grounded perspective—it’s a much-needed reminder for those considering this path.

Best,
[Your Name]

I’d also caution against framing coding as a guaranteed ticket to success. Not everyone who learns to code will land a job, even after years of effort, due to factors like market saturation, lack of experience, or inability to stand out in a crowded field. While persistence is key, it’s equally important to acknowledge that some may need to pivot if their circumstances or goals change, especially if they’re juggling heavy obligations.

That said, I do share your hope that the market for new developers improves soon. For those who can stick with it, coding can indeed be incredibly rewarding—both intellectually and financially. But I think setting realistic expectations and preparing for a potentially long and bumpy road is crucial to avoid burnout or disillusionment. What strategies do you think aspiring coders can adopt to stay motivated during these challenging times?

>Mads, while I agree that coding can be a lucrative career, I think it's important to add some realistic perspective for those considering this path. Saying it's a "high-paying career" is true eventually for some, but it's not a guarantee, especially not immediately.
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>The truth is, landing a coding job takes time and effort. You're not going to be job-ready after a short online course. The market, especially for junior developers, is incredibly competitive right now. Many talented, dedicated people are struggling to find their first role.
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>It's easy to get discouraged, especially when balancing learning with other life commitments. But perseverance is key. If you can stick with it, the rewards can be significant. I truly believe that once you break through and land that first job, the journey will have been worth it. Let's hope the market improves soon for new developers!