As someone who prides themselves on being fiercely independent, I've often found it challenging to ask for help. This trait has been a constant companion throughout my journey in the tech world, regardless of my level of expertise. Being a great developer undeniably requires a degree of independence, but I'm learning that there's also immense strength in vulnerability—in admitting that it's impossible to know everything.
Being a beginner in any field is tough. You're expected to make mistakes, to learn from them, and to grow. Yet, I've always found myself crippled by the fear of failure, especially in front of seasoned professionals like the Google Developer Experts (GDEs). The thought of them witnessing my errors—things that might seem basic to them—is a source of deep embarrassment for me.
This fear was put to the test recently when I was working on a homework assignment from my mentor. The stakes were high as this project was part of a significant conference. There's an inherent pressure in these situations—a silent expectation to excel. But here's the thing: admitting you need help is, in my opinion, one of the bravest things you can do. And in that moment, I had to remind myself that it's okay not to be a superhero all the time.
Asking for help wasn't easy. I battled with my code, trying every possible solution I could think of before finally reaching out. The sense of failure and shame was overwhelming because I couldn't accomplish what was asked of me on my own. However, deep down, I knew seeking assistance was the right decision. It was a quicker path to finding a solution and, more importantly, an opportunity for learning and growth.
In this experience, I discovered a fundamental truth about being a developer and perhaps about being human: vulnerability is not a weakness. It's a sign of strength. It means you're open to growth, to learning from others, and to becoming a better version of yourself. It's a step towards acknowledging that while independence is valuable, collaboration and learning from others are equally vital.
So, to my fellow developers, especially those just starting out, it's okay to ask for help. It's okay to not know everything. Embrace your vulnerability, for it is in these moments that we truly grow, not just as developers but as individuals. Let's redefine what it means to be a "superhero" in the tech world—one who is not only skilled and independent but also humble and open to learning from others.