Is programming for everybody?

Question

I've taken some programming in school, i've failed a couple because of life circumstances resulting in lack of focus. Even when retaking them , I feel so dumb.
Basically is programming like C++ for the logically inclined? Can people like me who aren't naturally good with math succeed in learning this?
Any advice as to what the next step is ?

Answer 1

Most of things aren't for everybody.
Most of things are only for people who want and are willing to work for said things, in spite of obstacles. Hard work won't betray you **(although hard work may betray your dreams).

Every healthy human being should be born with equal comprehension of logic. What differs in this field is affinity to learning, and confidence (surprise!) -

It is possible that your current state of failure is due to your numerous past failures at programming attempts, which have caused you to subconsciously limit your own potential by finding acceptable reasons/excuses to 'forgive' yourself. You have constructed the belief that you have inferior logic and reasoning skills compared to your peers, and you accept for fact that because of that, you are bad at math (and programming).

The first step would be to 're-initialize' yourself. Start from one - no - zero. Accept that different people learn things at different speeds, and that doesn't mean that you are stupider. Try to build up your confidence by creating small programs (which may be academically irrelevant, programs which are actually fun, that you can relate to). Progress only when you feel like you have reached the limit of what you can do with your current skills (instead of pushing yourself to the next chapter right after you have went through the current one). Repeat. Take breaks when necessary. (Contrary to popular belief, it is OK for programmers to rest) When you are stuck, Google it, and realize there are at least hundreds of people who are as 'dumb' as you (if your question is rare, then congratulations!).

Your mindset determines who you are, and how you interact with stuff. How you interact with stuff determines how stuff becomes. Changing your mindset to a positive one by gaining confidence will set off a chain reaction, which will change not only you, but everything around you, your life.

Answer 2

Programming does have logic involved and it is easier for someone who has better logical capabilities to do better in it. However, that doesn't mean you can't be a good programmer, even if you are bad at math and logical thinking. What matters is how much you try! You also, as you learn how to code, get better at math and logic, and your problem will slowly, but surely, disappear. Also, always remember that the greatest programmers and inventors didn't know anything at the beginning, but they learned it, and they got written down in history, and so can you, you just have to keep on going down this wonderful road!

Answer 3

You need to like what you do, no matter in which field. Plus, computing is not limited only to programming.