I want to talk about self-imposed boundaries and how transitioning into tech can be scary. I remember hiding in a bathroom stall, frozen with fear from a crowded hackathon room. I recall finding an excuse to not car-pool with co-workers from being terrified of being enclosed in a space with others. This created a self-imposed boundary of avoidance and silence to deter anxiety that resulted in being alone.

Last year, I did something that scared me. I attended a tech conference, Magnolia.js. Guess what, it was wonderful. Literally the sun was shining and I saw butterflies outside the venue. I learned a lot, saw many of my tech heroes, and was inspired to dream bigger. Even more, I crossed a boundary and the world didn’t crash or those preconceived demons didn’t flare up.

Someone recently inspired me to explore my self imposed limits. To consider that as we get older, how we deal with those boundaries should change. An older aunt explained to me how she combats anxieties with prayer, courage to “Do it Afraid '', and understanding that whatever she is afraid of more than likely will not happen.

We have to reason with our fear and question why “we can’t” (because we can). Examples of self-impose limits:

◼ I’m not smart enough.

First, you are smart enough. Second, transitioning into the tech industry isn’t about smarts but passion, dedication, and resilience.

◼ This isn’t for people that look like me or come from my neighborhood.

People from every shape, color, creed, disability, and whatnot are in tech breaking barriers. If they can, then you can.

◼ I didn’t go to college.

College is not required for every opportunity. The only real requirement is showing the value you can deliver.

◼ My experience isn’t in the tech industry, it’s not transferable.

Domain knowledge is an asset. Tech isn’t about code. It’s about problem solving which if you have work anywhere you have it.

◼ I’m too old.

Let’s turn this around, you have tons of wisdom (aka more value)

My question to you, what is a self imposed boundary or limit that you want to conquer or have conquered? Share it in the comments so others can either benefit or realize “We aren’t alone”.

This was written to the background song of Blackway & Black Caviar - "What's Up Danger" (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse)