Today I noticed something very interesting. A decade ago, when I was a budding programmer, and even for many years after, I would reach for anything and everything within my radar that I thought had the potential to benefit me as a programmer. Let me break this thought apart. I remember, fondly, how I would try every tool, read (or attempt to read) every blog that came my way (I am a newsletter hoarder), try to understand every piece of program I found interesting, and, of course, that my life’s task is to become a cybersecurity professional, I promised myself one thing: "I would take every piece of advice I got, resonated with, and even preached over the years, and mold the most efficient career transition I could imagine." Ambitious? Absolutely. But I’ve never known myself to be anything but ambitious. While this trait hasn’t always helped me, I’m doing quite alright, thank you. A handful of foundational principles now form the foothold for my growth:
- Good mental and physical health.
- Not fighting the finitude of life.
- Embracing the way I learn.
- Always approaching relationships with a mindset to give rather than take.
Good Mental and Physical Health
I am no expert in this matter, but I am trying—which is more than I could say about myself a year ago. About a year and a half ago, it was brought to my attention that I may be "niet normaal" (read: neurodiverse). This realization was a monumental breakthrough for me. In Bangladesh, the quality of one’s mind is rarely contemplated. Imagine not knowing if there will be enough food on the table and then wondering whether what you just said was offensive. It didn’t matter there. But here in Europe, with its robust healthcare system and social stability, I’ve had the chance to put things into perspective.
Perhaps I’ll write about this journey in more detail in the future. For now, what’s important to share is that I am making sure I put myself first holistically. I have found many answers and much peace in spirituality, for which I am thankful to Sam Harris. The
On top of some high place in Freiburg. I absolutely love heights!
Not Fighting the Finitude of Life
Life must end. Fully embracing this fact allows us to celebrate every breath. What I’ve found curious is that this is the productivity hack to beat all productivity hacks. I learned this from Oliver Burkeman's . Giving back is something I feel compelled to do. Additionally, I find that it’s a sound approach to growing one’s network. When I approach people, I think only about how I can be helpful rather than what I can gain. Sometimes, this bears fruit, but most of the time, it’s simply about leaving me with a warm and fuzzy feeling that I deeply cherish.
Conclusion
To sum up, I am trying to take an efficient approach to career change. I focus on taking care of myself and others, not overdoing it, and reaching slightly beyond my comfort zone. Hopefully, it will all work out. Please let me know if you think I’m on the right path.
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