Year in Review: 2025
What a year. Job hunting, building, writing, and growing through it all.
The Big Picture
Started the year employed. Got laid off in May. Still searching in December.
That's the factual summary. The reality is more nuanced.
By the Numbers
- **Months job hunting**: 7+
- **Applications sent**: 200+
- **Interviews**: 30+
- **Blog posts written**: 70+
- **Projects shipped**: 5
- **Discord community members**: 500+
What Went Well
Consistent Building
Despite uncertainty, I kept building:
- **TextGuard** - Content moderation tool
- **ZipDrop** - File sharing
- **Simple Chatbot** - Tutorial series
- **This blog** - 70 posts and counting
Building keeps skills sharp and provides evidence of activity.
This Blog
Writing became my anchor. 2-3 posts per week, every week.
It forced clarity of thought. Created a body of work. Connected me with others.
The Coder Life Community
The Discord grew organically. Hundreds of developers, all supporting each other through tough times.
Community was everything this year.
Mental Health
I stayed (mostly) okay. Exercise, routine, community. Taking breaks when needed.
This isn't always discussed, but it matters.
What Was Hard
The Silence
Applying into the void. Automated rejections. Ghosting after interviews.
It wears on you.
The Market
2025 wasn't a great year for tech hiring. Layoffs continued. Competition fierce.
Can't control the market. Can only control my response.
Uncertainty
Not knowing when/if things would turn around. That uncertainty is exhausting.
What I Learned
1. **Identity isn't employment** - Easier said than felt, but important 2. **Consistency compounds** - Small daily efforts add up 3. **Community is essential** - Don't isolate 4. **Diversify your days** - Job hunting can't be 100% of your time 5. **This too shall pass** - Markets cycle
Looking at 2026
I have no idea what's coming. But I'll face it with:
- Skills that are sharper than ever
- A body of public work
- A community behind me
- Perspective gained through struggle
Gratitude
To everyone who read these posts, joined the Discord, gave interview tips, shared job leads, or just sent kind words:
Thank you.
Here's to 2026.