The Evolution of a Developer (based on the intricate stages of life by Joscha Bach)

In this incredible clip (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUCa31RGKRo) Joscha Bach , a cognitive scientist, AI researcher, and philosopher, delves into the intricate stages of life in a conversation with Lex Fridman . Here's a detailed breakdown of the seven stages he mentions, correlated with the life stages I have experiences as a Developer:

?? The Beginning: First Steps in a Vast Universe

Do you remember the first time you wrote a line of code? The exhilaration of seeing "Hello, World!" on the screen? That was our introduction to the vast universe of programming. Just like an infant taking its first steps, we were in the Reactive Survival stage, trying to make sense of this new world.

As we grew, our projects became more complex. We moved from solo coding sessions to collaborating on platforms like GitHub. This Personal Self phase was all about exploration and discovery. And in the world of Developer Relations? It was akin to attending our first tech conference, absorbing knowledge, and making those initial connections.

?? The Middle: Growth, Collaboration, and Leadership

Our journey didn't stop there. As we delved deeper into the world of code, we began to understand the "why" behind our actions. This Rational Agency phase saw us thinking about design patterns, architecture, and the bigger picture. In DevRel, we started to listen more, understanding the needs of the community, and shaping products accordingly.

Then came the Self-Authoring stage. We were no longer just participants; we were leaders. Leading projects, mentoring the next generation, and becoming the go-to person for insights. In DevRel, this meant spearheading initiatives, shaping the narrative, and making impactful decisions.

?? The End: Mastery, Innovation, and Legacy

But what's beyond leadership? It's the pursuit of Enlightenment and Transcendence. In our coding journey, this meant reaching a level where we weren't just coding; we were creating art. We were pushing boundaries, innovating, and maybe even thinking about the next big thing in tech.

In DevRel, it was about global impact. We weren't just part of the community; we were shaping its future. Ensuring inclusivity, setting standards, and leaving a legacy for the next generation.

?? Wrapping Up: What's Your Story?

Every developer has a unique journey, filled with challenges, growth, and defining moments. From writing our first line of code to making a global impact, it's a rollercoaster ride worth every second.

So, where are you on this journey? Are you taking your first steps, leading the way, or somewhere in between? Drop a comment below, and let's share our stories. And if you ever want to chat about Java on Azure or anything tech, you know where to find me ??

Until next time, keep coding, keep connecting, and let's continue this incredible journey together! ??