Well, that went by fast!
At the end of the year I like to think about my accomplishments, struggles, and everything in between. Think of it as a self-retro.
I can’t go into extreme detail —but hey!— we now own 4 acres in a very interesting location with lots of potential.
What was once a boring 1960s slab of grass with some hydrangeas around the borders is now a stunning xerascape, tiki garden, and kitchen garden
This was probably the most rewarding thing I did all year. It was really great working with folks who are so eager to learn and grow, and helping guide them in meaningful ways. I basically gave them what I wish I had back when I was in their situation: A series of supportive, guiding, somewhat challenging experiences, that left them feeling empowered.
This was a work trip, but it was totally worth being able to visit the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
I created a silo-busting study hall for devs to level-set at the end of the week, independently of managers or product owners. This may seem like an anti-pattern to some agilists, and xp folks, but the shop I work in has lots of noise. We needed our own space to work things out.
I re-wrote bad code I wrote years ago. It’s better now, but I wonder what it will look like in a few years from now. Ha!
Yup. I’m burned out. I look at code and it feels like I’m losing brain cells. When my fingers touch my laptop keyboard, it feels like the keys, camera, and mic are draining my soul.
Next year, I’m going to need a few changes, but nothing like so-called New Years’ resolutions. I need to create a more meaningful, tangible path that’s closer to my values. It will probably mean letting go of some things. It will definitely mean eliminating some noise, which may mean spinning down this blog. It was an experiment. I learned from it, but it doesn’t really suit the brand I’m moving into.
If you’re reading this, have a happy new year, and follow me at @xeffrei.dev.
Cheers to 2025. Hope you have a good one!