Michael Jordan’s work ethic was unmatched. He was known for his tireless practice and training routines. He often said that he made more than 9,000 shots in his career, and he missed more than 26 game-winning shots. His point was simple: he wasn’t afraid to fail because he knew he would learn from it and get better.

In software engineering, this work ethic translates to a commitment to constant learning and improvement. Building great software isn’t just about talent; it’s about putting in the effort, making mistakes, and learning from them. Just like Jordan would practice free throws for hours, software engineers need to code, test, and debug to improve their skills.

Jordan’s brilliance on the basketball court came from his mastery of the basics. His understanding of the game’s basics was impeccable, excelling in areas like shooting, ball-handling, and defence. His understanding of the game’s fundamentals allowed him to make the right decisions under pressure.

In software engineering, mastering the fundamentals is equally critical. Understanding clean coding, data structures, algorithms, and coding principles is the foundation of building robust software. It’s tempting to dive headfirst into the latest technologies, but without a strong grasp of the basics, your code may for example suffer from inefficiency, bugs, or scalability issues.

Much like Michael Jordan excelled in short-term high-pressure situations on the basketball court, software engineers should welcome high-pressure scenarios. These moments, characterised by tight deadlines and immediate challenges, are opportunities to show problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and resilience. Embracing short-term pressure in software engineering can lead to growth and the development of a confident mindset, allowing you to tackle complex projects with grace and effectiveness.

Even at the peak of his career, Michael Jordan constantly sought ways to improve his skills. He was fully committed. He adapted to changes in the game, learned new techniques, and kept pushing his limits.

In software engineering, the landscape is ever-evolving. New languages, frameworks, and tools emerge regularly. The Michael Jordan approach encourages us to embrace change and commit to lifelong learning. This means investing in yourself and staying up to date with trends, attending workshops and conferences, and adapting to new technologies.

While Jordan was a dominant individual player, he also recognized the importance of teamwork. His leadership skills were instrumental in the success of his teams. He inspired and motivated his teammates to perform at their best.

In software engineering, collaboration is key. The most successful projects involve effective communication, teamwork, and leadership. Just as Jordan elevated his team, you can help lead your software development team to success by fostering a positive work environment and encouraging collaboration.

As software engineers we spend a huge amount of time at our desk in front of our screens. It’s easy to overlook the importance of our health and nutrition. Just as athletes like Michael Jordan maintain their bodies to perform at their best, software engineers should focus on their well-being. Stress is a real concern in our field, and neglecting your health can have a negative impact on both your work and personal life. It’s essential to find a healthy work-life balance, take breaks, and get regular exercise. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of mental health. Practice stress-reduction techniques, seek help when needed, and make time for activities you enjoy outside of work. Remember, staying healthy and looking after yourself is a strategy for long-term success in your software engineering career.