Why I Code

I code because... it is creative and intellectually stimulating.

I code because… unlike pen and paper, code can actually make things happen.

I code because… I don't need anyone's approval or money or anything to make something amazing.

I code because… it's a form of self-expression, where artistic ability meets imagination meets intellect.

I code because… it’s the only way I can make my dreams come true myself.

I code because… it allows me to achieve goals with people who I've never met, who may or may not speak my language.

I code because… it’s not subjective; it's black and white, it either works or it doesn't.

I code because… it doesn't bound me to an office, certain hours, or any geographic location.

I code because… it’s enables me to solve big problems, with just my hands and a laptop.

Here’s the thing, though; coding isn’t what I do. Coding is just the tool software engineers use to solve problems and create solutions.

Let me put it another way:

In the way an artist has an easel, the software engineer has a workspace or a terminal.

In the way an artist uses a paint brush or a pen or a pencil, the software engineer uses Ruby or Java or C.

In the way an artist paints or draws, the software engineer codes or programs.

In the way an artist dreams and design and creates, the software engineer does the same.

The only difference is in the end, the artist just has a pretty picture that people can admire and look at, but the software engineer has a solution that can change lives.