I've been putting this blog off for a long time. I had one way back when the internet was still young, but that was just like everything else on the internet at that time, mostly just a novelty. I've found that as my career as a professional software developer has progressed, or as an adult for that matter, I've had these moments where I'd say to myself, "I should be writing this down." The reality was, I never did, as I could always start tomorrow. There have been a ton of tomorrows that have passed me by in the meantime.
The name of this blog, The 4WD coder, really has dual meaning for me. If you just read it like an abbreviation, it looks like Forward, as I've had some of friends point out. But personally when I see 4WD, my immediate thought is ... four wheel drive. When you've left the paved roads and the environment gets rough, you need to shift your vehicle into 4WD to continue to get optimal traction forward and move through obstacles. This concept translates to our life journey as well. When situations get difficult, you have to dig down deep to find the personal strength to work through the issues at hand and move Forward...
Over the past few years I've developed an appreciation for personal growth and development. This has really changed how I look at life and how I now approach problems. The content I have consumed has given me some tools which allow me to be a better person, manager, father, spouse, and self. This blog is really just an outlet for myself to reflect on some of the lessons learned, share some of the wins I've fought for, shine a light on some of the fun stuff I've run across, and more importantly allow me to rebuild some pieces of myself that I've lost along the way.
Sincerely,
John - The 4WD Coder
