Dear software engineers,

It stings when you see your college friends or ex-teammates posting about new job offers, hikes, or “finally made it to FAANG” while you’re still hustling for your shot.

Every “I’m thrilled to announce…” on LinkedIn can feel like salt in the wound.

And it’s natural to wonder:
>> Why not me?
>> Am I not good enough?
>> Will my turn ever come?

But please understand that everyone’s journey in tech runs on a different timeline.

Some folks have been grinding DSA or building side projects for years.
Some get lucky with a referral or the right timing.
None of it means you’re lagging behind, or that you don’t deserve that shot.

You might feel stuck now, but your breakthrough might just be around the corner.

Keep building, keep learning, keep shipping, even if it’s lonely.

One day, you’ll look back and realize this phase taught you resilience, focus, and the kind of grit you can’t learn in any bootcamp.