Programmers are creatives

The Truth About Coding: It's Not What You Think

Wait, what?
Before you "actual creatives" roll your eyes and start crafting your takedown tweets, just give me a second. There's this crazy misconception floating around that programming is just about slapping keys like a caffeinated keyboard warrior, fueled by Cheetos and a dangerously low shower count.

The Real Deal: Code Is Just the Beginning

Let's get one thing straight: programming is so much more than smashing out lines of code. Sure, there are always going to be those folks in any field who fit the lazy, unhygienic stereotype, but the idea that this defines software engineers? Total myth. The reality? A true developer spends about 80% of their time in the planning phase—sketching out ideas, drawing up mockups, researching, talking to users, and experimenting. The actual coding? Maybe 20% tops.

If you're a fresh-faced computer science student, still traumatized by those 3,000-line programs that barely passed the test cases, I get it. But those late-night coding marathons? They're just a warm-up, a primer in logical thinking. Once you step into the real world, whether you're building something for fun or cash, you'll realize that coding is just one tool in a much bigger kit. It's the creativity, the ability to envision something unique, that turns lines of code into something truly amazing.

Creative Coding: Enter the Indie Hackers

Here's where it gets interesting: ever heard of an indie hacker? If not, you're missing out. An indie hacker is like a modern-day renaissance coder—self-sufficient, not chasing VC dollars, but instead launching their software products solo, relying on their own skills and creativity.

The secret sauce that sets successful indie hackers apart? They’re not just grinding code 24/7. They’re reading, listening to podcasts, dabbling in design, photography, music—hell, even building personal brands with blogs and vlogs like this. :) The sweaty, Cheeto-fingered stereotype? Nowhere to be found. The real deal is a coder who steps away from the keyboard, learns something new, and brings that fresh perspective back to their work. That's how you build something people care about.

The Takeaway: Be More Than Just a Coder

So, if you're a programmer, here's my challenge: step outside. Travel. Read. Pick up that guitar you've been eyeing. Live a little and let the world outside of code inspire your next project. Don’t shy away from calling yourself a creative—own it. Your code can be art, but only if you let your creativity off the leash.

And if you're not a programmer? The same rules apply. Whatever your profession, push the boundaries, think outside the box, and find those creative solutions that make your work stand out. If coders can be creatives, so can you.

Still skeptical? Check out the Indie Hackers Podcast and see for yourself. SWEs might just be some of the most creative people out there, right up there with artists, musicians, and anyone else who dares to think differently.