Dump 8: Finding Your Flow!
Staying Afloat in Your Tech Career
This is one of those discussions every techie wants to have with someone but shoves it aside. Well, let’s have that discussion already!
I will keep this real–working in tech can feel like constantly treading water, trying to keep up with the latest updates, trends, and tools. One minute you’re on top of everything; the next, you’re scrambling to catch up with new software or another workflow update. It can feel overwhelming!
I’ve discovered that once you figure out how to get into a flow that works for you, things start to feel a little less chaotic. What’s flow? Well, I learned this from one of my favorite books of 2024…IKIGAI.
So, I thought to share this unpopular with you. The good news is that you’re not alone, and there are ways to stay afloat without burning out.
Here are 5 ways I’ve managed to find my flow and stay on top of my tech career—and how you can too.
1. Flow Starts with a Routine
I know, I know—"routine" sounds boring. But having a simple, flexible routine actually gives you more space to focus on the things that matter. Whether it’s checking emails, working on projects, or learning new tools, a well-structured day helps you stay grounded. My morning always starts with a coffee and a quick review of what I need to accomplish before diving into tasks.
Flow Tip: Break up your day into manageable chunks, and make time for learning! Tech moves fast, and staying updated without feeling overwhelmed means carving out a little learning time daily.
2. Stay Curious, Stay Flexible
The truth is, tech isn’t going to stop evolving. And while that might sound intimidating, it’s actually what makes working in this field exciting. If you embrace curiosity and a growth mindset, adapting to change feels less like a chore and more like an opportunity.
Find the topics that spark your interest; Web3, AI, or UX writing– things that genuinely fascinate you make learning easier.
For me, exploring new ways to optimize content design or experimenting with tools like Figma and Notion has been the key to staying afloat and in flow!
"Nemo solus satis sapit." (No one alone knows enough)
— Latin proverb, highlighting the value of shared knowledge and support.
3. Community is Everything
Sometimes, when things get tough or confusing, reaching out to your network can be a lifesaver. For me, talking to other UX writers, designers, and developers—whether it’s for advice, tips, or just a sanity check—helps me stay on track.
Flow Tip: Join communities or online groups in your field. Slack channels, LinkedIn groups, or attending webinars, connecting with others not only keep you updated but can help you avoid feeling isolated.
4. Take a Breather
This one’s a biggie. The tech industry moves fast, and it’s easy to feel like you need to always be on top of things. But guess what? It’s okay to take a break. In fact, it’s essential.
I make sure to schedule short breaks during my workday. And on days when things are particularly overwhelming? I’ll step away for a longer break, get some fresh air, and come back with a clearer mind.
Flow Tip: A short walk, a quick stretch, or even just stepping away from the screen for a few minutes can do wonders for your productivity and mental health.
5. Celebrate the Small Wins
Tech careers often feel like there’s always a new mountain to climb. But don’t forget to celebrate the small wins! Completed a project? Buy a bottle of red wine–that’s what I do. lol
Read all of your emails for the day? Recognize your progress with an extra snack! Or some extra gaming hours! These small victories add up and help keep you motivated when things get tough.
Flow Tip: Staying afloat in your tech career isn’t about running yourself ragged trying to keep up. It’s about finding your flow, building routines that work for you, staying curious, and most importantly—taking care of yourself along the way.
If you read to the end, I’ve got a few goodies for you. This is the resource dump (which you’ll be seeing more often in every newsletter going forward) where you’ll find something for what you’re feeling now if you’re struggling to find your flow.
Resource Dump
Books I’ve enjoyed so far…
Ikigai by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles
Why Men Love Bitches by Sherry Argov
Crushing It by Gary Vaynerchuk
Well… that’s it for today!