Hat’s the Best Way to Stay Motivated While Learning JavaScript?

[dannyparker]

I’ve been learning JavaScript for a few months now, and while I started off excited, I sometimes hit points where I feel stuck or overwhelmed. There’s so much to learn—ES6 features, async programming, DOM manipulation—and I often wonder if I’m making real progress.

For those who’ve been through this, how did you stay motivated? Did you follow a specific learning path, work on projects, or find a particular resource that really helped? I’d love to hear any tips or personal experiences that kept you going!

[jwilkins.oboe]

HI @dannyparker !

@dannyparker

while I started off excited, I sometimes hit points where I feel stuck or overwhelmed.

Welcome to the world of programming.

We have all been there and this will never go away. But the satisfying thing is when you work through a tough problem and finally arrive at an answer. That is where the real learning and growth comes in.

@dannyparker

There’s so much to learn—ES6 features, async programming, DOM manipulation—and I often wonder if I’m making real progress.

One of the reasons why most beginners quit programming is because that expect the learning process to be much smoother and quicker then reality.

To get good at programming will takes years of study, practice and solving problems.
So the key is to take it one day at a time chipping away one bit at a time.

Through time and practice these concepts will start to make sense.

Some days you will have a breakthrough in understanding or solve a problem.
Other days you will run into a tons of errors and be stuck.

But all of that is part of the learning process.

Most people view errors, setbacks and issues as permeant failures and signs to quit. But that isn’t true.
That is where the real learning comes in.
Getting stuck on something or not understanding something is the first step to becoming a better programmer. It forces you to read more documentation, learn from error messages, ask better questions and tests your problem solving skills.

@dannyparker

For those who’ve been through this, how did you stay motivated?

Motivation comes and goes. So it is best not to live by that to stay on course.
There are going to be plenty of times where you won’t want to code but you should keep studying anyway.

it is better to focus on building small sustainable habits and systems so you can be successful. Consistency is what it will take to get you where you want to go.

When I was first learning in 2020, there were plenty of times where I wasn’t motivated to code. But I coded anyway because I knew continual practice and consistency was what was required.

@dannyparker

Did you follow a specific learning path, work on projects, or find a particular resource that really helped?

I worked through the freeCodeCamp curriculum and built side projects a long the way.
I also got involved in the community and networked and built connections a long the way.

I think consistency and networked is what helped me land my first job.

Learning how to code is hard.
But the key is to keep going and push through the hard moments and not expect everyday to be a hit and homerun.
Some days you will walk away frustrated because something doesn’t work. But that is still part of the learning and growing.

I would also suggest you listen to Quincy’s advice for learning because it will be really helpful

freeCodeCamp.org

freeCodeCamp.org

[Teller]

Welcome to the forum @dannyparker

Motivation is just part of the equation when it comes to learning a programming language.

Do you like:

• solving problems
• searching for answers
• building things you can use
• learning new things
• hard work?

For motivation, you’ll need to ask yourself why you want to program.
Put into words, in a short sentence, why you have to program, you can refer to that anytime you lose motivation. Think of it as a personal mission statement. You don’t need to share it with anyone.

If you can find a reason why you enjoy doing something, you are more likely to stick with it.

Also, take short breaks from programming. Pace yourself, get at least eight hours of good quality sleep, and regular exercise.

Happy coding

[dannyparker]

@jwilkins.oboe

Thanks so much for the detailed and encouraging response! I really needed to hear that setbacks and errors are just part of the learning process rather than signs of failure. I’ll try to shift my mindset and see challenges as opportunities to grow. Also, I love the idea of focusing on consistency rather than motivation—it makes a lot of sense. I’ll check out freeCodeCamp and start working on some side projects to reinforce what I’m learning. Appreciate the advice!

[dannyparker]

@Teller

I really like your perspective on finding a personal reason to program. I hadn’t thought about writing a mission statement before, but that sounds like a great way to stay focused when things get tough. I do enjoy problem-solving and building things, so I’ll remind myself of that whenever I feel stuck. Also, your advice on taking breaks, getting good sleep, and exercising is a great reminder—I’ll make sure to balance learning with self-care. Thanks for the insight!

[adilhassan]

@dannyparker

I’ve been learning JavaScript for a few months now, and while I started off excited, I sometimes hit points where I feel stuck or overwhelmed. There’s so much to learn—ES6 features, async programming, DOM manipulation—and I often wonder if I’m making real progress.

For those who’ve been through this, how did you stay motivated? Did you follow a specific learning path, work on projects, or find a particular resource that really helped? I’d love to hear any tips or personal experiences that kept you going!

Feeling overwhelmed is normal when learning JavaScript as there’s a lot to take in! What helped me was building small projects to apply what I learned and seeing real progress. Break concepts into manageable chunks, celebrate small wins, and engage with the community for support. Also, revisiting old code can show you how much you’ve improved!

[Creds]

@dannyparker

I’ve been learning JavaScript for a few months now, and while I started off excited, I sometimes hit points where I feel stuck or overwhelmed. There’s so much to learn—ES6 features, async programming, DOM manipulation—and I often wonder if I’m making real progress.

For those who’ve been through this, how did you stay motivated? Did you follow a specific learning path, work on projects, or find a particular resource that really helped? I’d love to hear any tips or personal experiences that kept you going!

We understand how you feel! Learning JavaScript can be overwhelming, especially with the constant evolution of the language and its ecosystem.

But here’s the thing: you’re not alone, and you’re making progress, even if it doesn’t feel like it.

The key to staying motivated is to celebrate small wins along the way! Don’t wait until you’ve mastered everything; acknowledge and celebrate each tiny achievement along the way.

Here are some tips to help you stay motivated:

1. Break it down: Divide your learning journey into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on one topic at a time, like ES6 features or async programming.
2. Work on projects: Apply what you’ve learned by building real-world projects. This will help you retain information better and see the practical value of your learning.
3. Find a learning buddy: Connect with fellow learners or join online communities, like GitHub, Reddit, or Stack Overflow. Sharing experiences and getting support from others can be a huge motivator.
4. Reward yourself: Set milestones and treat yourself when you reach them. This could be something as simple as a favorite meal or a fun activity.
5. Stay inspired: Follow industry leaders, blogs, and podcasts. Seeing the exciting work others are doing can spark your own creativity and motivation.

Remember, learning JavaScript is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay committed, and you’ll get there and we will always be cheering you on along the way!