#213: Seven software engineering tips to make real progress this year

January is the perfect time to take stock, and in this episode we share the most common lessons we've learned from six years of coaching Python developers. Drawing on hundreds of real-world conversations, we break down seven practical fixes that consistently help developers move forward - from stopping endless consumption and actually building, to escaping abandoned GitHub repos, getting proper code reviews, and shifting from scripts to real systems with solid tooling, testing, and version control. The conversation also dives into mindset: overcoming imposter syndrome, using AI without becoming dependent on it, and why going it alone often makes your journey harder than it needs to be. Download the Free 7-Engineering Shifts Guide Here: https://pybit.es/escape-tutorial-hell/ Books mentioned: Fundamentals of Software Architecture -https://pybitesbooks.com/books/yClOEQAAQBAJ Before We Say Goodbye - https://pybitesbooks.com/books/GMGhEAAAQBAJ ___ 💡🧑‍💻 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