5 Tips for Creatives Navigating a Coding Bootcamp

So you decided to do it — embark on a journey to become a software engineer. You may have thought this career choice would change your life for the better and allow you some freedom to continue your creative practice .

Soon, you realize that this is no easy feat. The days are long and filled with fast paced tough learning, buggy apps, and tentative deadlines. You might miss writing music, taking a brush to a canvas, or working with video. It can feel a lot different from navigating on your own time, speed, and working on something you’re deeply passionate about. It‘s even more of a struggle if you have no prior experience coding and you’re having to work the logical side of your brain into overtime. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to help keep your sanity so you can push through and realize the art of coding!

1. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is so important to maintaining mental health and boosting productivity. Take time to feel grateful for the experience of being in a bootcamp. Remember the reasons why you decided to take this path. It might be having a career that challenges you as a thinker or having better quality of life. Find time to meditate in the morning if you’re up to it. Eat foods that keep you energized and satisfied. Pamper yourself with self-care. Look into aromatherapy to boost your mood. Try writing affirmations or keeping a journal to log your feelings and thoughts.

2. Get Active

Have a lot of frustration building up because your app isn’t working or a topic is too hard? Or frustrated you haven’t had time to work on your craft? Get moving! If you’re into slow and steady movement, try yoga or pilates. Like something a bit more rigorous? Try dance workouts, Zumba, or HIIT exercises. Get outdoors and immerse yourself in nature’s scenery by going for a bike ride, long run, or quiet hike. You may find that when you do sit down again to work, you have…