Should I Focus on What I Want to Do Rather Than Where to Work as a Software Engineer?

As a software engineer, deciding between what you want to do versus where to work can be a challenging decision. However, the path that leads to happiness and personal fulfillment is often more rewarding. This article explores the benefits and considerations of prioritizing your passion in your career.

Following Your Passion Leads to Happiness

Many people believe that doing what you love is the key to happiness. In the context of software engineering, this means pursuing projects and roles that align with your interests. It’s important to remember that choosing to pursue a passion, even if it’s a longer and more indirect path, can lead to greater satisfaction and personal achievement. The alternative is to take the easier path, which may provide immediate gratification but might not fulfill your long-term goals.

I, for example, have been waiting for VR (Virtual Reality) to come into the mainstream for over 20 years. Finally, when the technology was ripe, I decided to dive in headfirst. This decision has not only been fulfilling but has also opened up new opportunities. The journey to working in VR would have been long and challenging, but it was worth it because the end result is something I am passionate about.

Getting Into Augmented Reality: A Real Challenge

While augmented reality (AR) offers a promising career path, it’s essential to be aware of the competition and the challenges involved. AR is a fascinating field, but it has been around for much longer than many people realize. As a result, the market for AR jobs can be quite competitive, and entry-level positions are scarce.

If you have a strong interest in AR, it’s crucial to pursue opportunities in this field early on. Start by looking for established players like Microsoft, Qualcomm, or Intel, or any smaller startups that are hiring. However, while it’s beneficial to have a focus on AR, it’s equally important to keep an open mind and apply to a variety of roles. This approach increases your chances of finding a suitable position and also broadens your skill set.

Remember, as a software engineer, developing versatile skills is crucial. While you may end up working in AR, you gain valuable experience and knowledge that can be applied to other areas of software engineering. This flexibility is often more advantageous than specializing too early in your career. As the AR industry evolves, your adaptable and comprehensive skill set will serve you well.

Leading Edge Technologies: A Small Risk with Big Rewards

Another key consideration is whether to work on the leading edge of technology like augmented reality. While it’s a small risk to work on a cutting-edge project, the benefits can be substantial. By being involved in innovative projects, you can:

Earn a significant personal achievement by working on something that might not be recognized immediately but will make a difference in the long term. Gain valuable experience and knowledge in emerging technologies. Stay on the leading edge of your field, potentially giving you a leg up when the technology becomes mainstream. Showcase your ability to work on challenging projects during job interviews and earn a reputation as a problem-solving and innovative individual.

Being on the leading edge is a calculated risk, but the potential rewards are substantial. You can still do great engineering work, and in doing so, you’ll be well-prepared for when the technology breaks out of its startup phase. By focusing on what you love, you not only increase your chances of personal success but also contribute to a field that will continue to grow and flourish.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to prioritize your passion in software engineering is a personal one. While choosing a more challenging path can be daunting, the rewards in terms of personal fulfillment and professional growth are significant. Whether you choose to pursue AR, VR, or another emerging technology, the goal should always be to do what you love. This approach not only leads to greater job satisfaction but also positions you for success in whatever direction your career may take.