Have you heard of the 75 Hard Challenge? If not, it's a challenge pioneered by entrepreneur and influencer Andy Frisella. In this challenge, individuals must adhere to five strict rules for the next 75 days. Failure to do so requires them to restart from day 1. You can learn more about the challenge rules here.

This is where I drew inspiration for creating a similar challenge tailored for developers. However, the rules here differ and are specifically crafted for programmers. The guidelines for the "75 Hard Challenge for Devs" are as follows:

1. Code for at least 2 hours a day

2. Solve at least 3 DSA problems

3. Embrace new hobbies or refine existing ones

4. Exercise Daily for Basic Fitness

5. Post about your progress on any social media

Let's understand how each of these above-mentioned rules works and contributes to professional and personal growth.

1. Code for at least 2 hours a day:

   Programming is a pivotal aspect of this challenge; as such, participants are required to code for a minimum of 2 hours daily. The rules are thoughtfully structured to accommodate individuals, even those juggling college or full-time jobs. Allocate 2 hours to programming to hone your proficiency in your current technology or venture into learning a new one. The choice of programming skill is entirely yours. It could be as straightforward as acquainting yourself with a new programming language. You're at liberty to embark on side projects, seek knowledge from platforms like YouTube, or any other avenue. The crux lies in maintaining unwavering consistency.

2. Solve at least 3 DSA problems:

   Solving algorithmic problems is paramount for acing any technical interview. Whether you're seeking a fresh job opportunity or considering transitioning roles, this practice can prove advantageous. Nearly every interview encompasses questions related to data structures and algorithms, underscoring the importance of pre-interview preparation. Devoting time to solving merely three such problems each day can yield significant outcomes.

3. Embrace new hobbies or refine existing ones:

   This challenge encompasses more than just honing your programming abilities; it encompasses holistic development. Undertaking this challenge may prove to be demanding for certain individuals; therefore, it's crucial to find relaxation and engage in activities that bring joy while being productive. For example, you might explore acquiring a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument. Alternatively, if you're already adept at playing one, you can dedicate time to perfecting your skills. The choice of activity is entirely personal—anything you find enjoyable or aspire to learn. There are no strict time constraints for this endeavor; the duration is wholly at your discretion.

4. Exercise daily for basic fitness:

   As developers, a significant portion of our time is dedicated to screens, seated in chairs for extended periods. Consequently, prioritizing fitness becomes crucial. A rudimentary exercise regimen can suffice. The key lies in ensuring unwavering daily consistency. As emphasized before, this challenge resonates with comprehensive growth, underlining the significance of nurturing our well-being.

5. Post about your progress on any social media:

   This rule remains optional, recognizing that some individuals may feel reticent or uneasy about sharing their progress on social media. Nevertheless, I urge you to consider making posts. Your sharing could potentially inspire others, propelling them to embark on their own skill-enhancement journey.

Conclusion:

If you find merit in this challenge, I welcome your feedback and any suggestions you may have. This challenge's formulation takes into account the reality of demanding schedules, making it occasionally challenging to adhere. However, it's crucial to recognize that this challenge is flexible and adaptable, tailored to your individual timetable. For instance, you can establish a daily coding goal of just 1 hour or, if necessary, omit the second or third rule. The power to customize lies entirely with you. The challenge is centered on your aspirations and routine, so feel empowered to adjust it to align with your goals and commitments.

All the Best!