Aim for the Bigger Picture in Tech: It’s More Than Just the Money

Let me start by saying that money is important. Yes, it should be one of the reasons you're working hard, but it shouldn’t end there. Focusing solely on the financial side can trap you in a cycle where no amount is ever enough. So, while earning is essential, it’s crucial to aim for something bigger.

As developers, we have the opportunity to solve real-world problems by creating software solutions. Think beyond just making money—envision establishing yourself as an indie hacker, building amazing products, and making an impact through open-source contributions. Sure, earning while doing what you love gives you a sense of accomplishment, but it’s not the whole story.

This journey, while rewarding, won’t be easy. You’ll face ups and downs, but the key takeaway here is that tech should never be solely about financial gain.

Even before you start making money, learn to enjoy the process. The same applies once the money starts coming in—remember, it’s a long journey.

I’ll use myself as an example. When I first got into tech, I mistakenly thought it was a quick way to get rich. I lacked the right orientation and had unrealistic expectations. As I progressed, I realized how much there was to learn. That’s when I began to set long-term goals and rid myself of the illusion that I'd make big money instantly.

Gradually, my mindset shifted. I started to see the bigger picture: building impactful software solutions, creating a personal brand, and eventually, starting my own business to solve real problems.

The reason I’m sharing this is that I wish I had this perspective earlier. It’s not just about making money; it's about becoming so valuable that you can solve problems and contribute to the world in meaningful ways.

To all techies or anyone working hard to get started: aim for the bigger picture. Don’t limit yourself to the idea that making money is the ultimate goal.

You are capable of so much more. The sky's the limit!