#211: Keeping the joy in coding - a new year's resolution

Join us as we catch up in the first Pybites podcast of 2026. We chat about how it feels to build software with AI today. We're moving faster than ever, but are we losing the joy of coding along the way? Julian shares a recent Django build and how he used AI to ship quickly while still keeping good habits around code quality, testing, and reviews. We talk about why small steps, clear prompts, and staying involved in the code matter more than handing everything over to AI. We also reflect on the value of taking proper breaks, resetting habits, and the impact of simple weekly rituals. Along the way, we celebrate a community career win and challenge you to choose one meaningful focus that would make 2026 a great year. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by AI or worried about falling behind, this episode is a reminder to slow down, build well, and enjoy the craft again. Episode Links: Charlie Marsh tweet - https://x.com/charliermarsh/status/2008665789709382130 Escape tutorial hell guide - https://pybit.es/escape-tutorial-hell/ Tony's New Years Intentions - https://pybites.circle.so/c/open-discussion/new-year-s-intention Bob's Books: Vibe Coding - https://pybitesbooks.com/books/ktVcEQAAQBAJ From Strength to Strength - https://pybitesbooks.com/books/BKZPEAAAQBAJ Julian's Books: The Rose Field - https://pybitesbooks.com/books/vq1a0QEACAAJ Pybites Books - https://pybitesbooks.com ___ 💡🧑‍💻 Want to become a more focused, motivated, and effective Python developer? The Pybites Developer Mindset (PDM) Program helps you build strong habits, deepen your skills, and make real progress in just six weeks. Join us for mentorship, accountability, and a supportive community that keeps you moving forward. Start your PDM journey now! 🌟✅ https://pybit.es/catalogue/the-pdm-program/ ___ If you found this podcast helpful, please consider following us! Start Here with Pybites: https://pybit.es