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I just want to code (2023)

(www.zachbellay.com)
288 points SCUSKU | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.297s | source
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alkonaut ◴[] No.43818348[source]
Do many people hobby code with that entrepreneur mindset thing? Or sit down to play guitar thinking they want to make a hit and feeling bad if they just noodle some cover songs? What a miserable existence that must be. How do you get that way? Should we blame LinkedIn or what is it?
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hombre_fatal ◴[] No.43820790[source]
Seems reasonable that you would struggle with the opportunity cost of your time when you're writing software for fun since you could also be working towards a greater goal of launching something that might make money.

Software is relatively unique because of the multiplying effects of software (without banking on a moonshot) unlike, say, carpentry or strumming a guitar. So the opportunity cost can be even higher.

You should always be cognizant of opportunity costs because they're always in play. And I can see that getting away from people, especially if you haven't already achieved your financial life goals.

I feel similar when I try to play a game in my 30s. It feels like a huge waste of time compared to something that would advance me towards my aspirations. But I think that's just part of being an adult. Just be aware of the trade you're making.

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1. alkonaut ◴[] No.43829851[source]
I still don't get it. What I want to do is make software as a hobby that can never be sold. If I start writing some boring SaaS software instead then I'm losing my opportunity to do what I like?

I think it must basically be a funamental question of goals/aspirations to begin with. I never had an aspiration to be e.g. wealthy, retire early, or make very senior positions within my company. Is that the difference?