How to find a coding buddy

Question

I was reading Jeff Atwood's blog and he mentioned that he was suffering from code-paralysis (he called it analysis paralysis, but I feel like it's also code paralysis) when he didn't have a code buddy. Unfortunately I think that Jeff has set the bar a bit high, because he only works with developers who are really amazing. The only reason really amazing developers would work with me is if I was really amazing too, but sometimes I don't feel that amazing... the only thing I feel is that if I had a coding buddy I could be amazing :).

I'm working on a project and I don't have many friends that are programmers, let alone friends that have time to spend on extracurricular activities. Jeff seems to have been able to find like-minded people that are actually willing to work together. I feel like I'm in a code-paralysis stage too and I need some coding buddies, where would I find some? How would I approach them?

Answer 1

There are people waiting to become your coding buddies :)

Answer 2

I found attending code seminars is often a good start as well. Usually the people who have time to devote to attending one of these get-togethers to simply talk about random bits or featured coding projects have the drive (potentially) to work on extracurricular projects outside of their normal day job.

Answer 3

CraigsList personals

Curious male looking for like minded partner for exploration, experimentation and fun!

Answer 4

First, finding a coding buddy is not that different from finding a friend or a mate. The advice / options are very similar.

For me personally, I've had a lot of success coding with acquaintances from college (which was a while back, but those are often long-lasting relationships) and from current and former employment. In fact, working with a coworker on a side project can be very beneficial for you and your employer (boosts morale, improves communication and teamwork, etc) since you are essentially "practicing" your jobs outside of regular work hours. I think of it like two teammates on a pro basketball team playing pickup games on the weekends.

Answer 5

Monthly meetups and user groups would be one way.

Perhaps participating in an Open Source project could work as well.