From early 2025, I dreamed big: work at NAB (a major Australian bank), become a software engineer. It sounded beautiful. But when I started mapping out the roadmap to achieve it, I realized something was wrong.
I created endless plans:
Learn Java Core
Master DSA
Build multiple projects in parallel
Practice interview skills
Create "impressive" projects
Looking at this list now, I see the truth: it was an illusion.
I couldn't translate my dream into concrete steps. I was just copying what others said, what I read online—without validating it myself.
My pre-planned roadmap fell apart. Those 2-3 projects I planned to do in parallel? Now I'm only focusing on one. DSA that I planned to master? I realized I'm missing basic Java Core.
Every single plan was based on theory, not reality.
I learned a concept: "skin in the game" - you need stake in something to truly understand it.
This applies perfectly to my dreams.
You can't map out a year-long plan, then sit around for 6 months without results. You have to:
Try (early, even if unprepared)
Get feedback (from experienced people)
Adjust your mindset (based on reality, not plans)
I realize: if I hadn't hired a mentor in April 2026 and just kept self-studying, I'd still be in my illusion that I was "almost done" with Java Core.
But when my mentor reviewed my code, everything changed.
Part 6: A Lesson for Others in Similar Situations#
I emphasize to my friends:
You don't need to wait until you're ready.
You just need a tiny opportunity (small as a pinhole), then go for it. You don't need to know if you're right or wrong. Just 1-2 weeks of real experience, and you'll see reality.
Many people talk but don't act. They fear failure, so they delay.
I was like that too. I wanted a mentor from the start of the year, but delayed until April because I was afraid.
But here's what matters: if you have the resources around you, try. Have "skin in the game."