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January 14, 2026Sergei Solod2 min read

Back From Vacation and Straight Back Into Code

Four focused days of building reminded me how much I love deep technical work after time away.

Software DevelopmentContinuous LearningSide ProjectsDeveloper LifeBuild in PublicCareer in TechLearning by Doing

After a long holiday that lasted until January 10 (I was traveling), I came home and did something that felt surprisingly natural:

I spent January 11, 12, 13, and 14 doing what I love most — writing code for four days in a row.

And honestly? I felt genuinely happy.

There’s something deeply satisfying about:

  • solving technical problems,
  • learning new skills along the way,
  • and watching a project become more real with every commit.

Of course, rest matters. I’m not pretending burnout is some kind of badge of honor.

But if I’m honest, I sometimes find rest a little… boring — at least compared with the challenge and reward of building things. Coding gives me that mix of focus + progress + curiosity that I can’t really replace with anything else.

I wanted to share this energy because it’s one of the few feelings I’m completely sure about:

Even if nobody paid me, I’d still write code.

My pet projects are how I learn. They’re my playground and my training ground at the same time.

Right now, they actually cost me money and bring in zero revenue — and I still love them:

  • VDS servers
  • AI token costs
  • domain fees

It’s an investment in skill, momentum, and curiosity — and for me, that’s worth it. 💡💻

#softwaredevelopment #continuouslearning #sideprojects #developerlife #buildinpublic #careerintech #learningbydoing