Ask HN: Can anybody else not use their computer for much other than coding? I'm a programmer and very focused on my software engineering skills. I tend to spend time on my computer either programming or learning some new tech, and tend to feel 'guilty' when I'm using my computer for anything else. |
I code for a living and I do side projects, both work for a committee and also art projects I do that always involve a computer.
I do plenty of reading the news, commenting on HN, checking the weather report, and researching topics online too. I've also been a video game addict at times, sometimes that has been PC games (... hmmm there's that Atelier game I haven't played yet) and usually a last-generation console.
I go to the gym and I put miles in hiking, in fact over time I have exercised more than is optimal to be healthy and I find it easy to do. Personally I am looking for more social things to do, for instance go to happy hour and have a non-alcoholic beer so I can drive home. Online dating strikes me as the absolutely most nerve wracking thing I could do because I spend so much time in front of the computer anyway.
But, to answer your question directly. I read news, watch streaming services, play video games all on my personal PC. I don't feel guilty. I put a lot of effort into my work, when working. I realize I need time for fun and relaxing, as well as exercise(although I could be way better at getting it). In order for me to perform at my best at work, I can't be burned out or drained, and these other activities help that.
Also, there is nothing wrong with spending time writing code to learn new stuff.