Should You Learn Django After Mastering Ruby on Rails and Node.js?

Recently, I've encountered numerous inquiries about whether it's advantageous to learn Django after gaining proficiency in Ruby on Rails and Node.js. As I reflect on my own experiences, I can make some assumptions about the types of developers who pose these questions. Please feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. This individual likely perceives the value in learning Django even if no specific job or project requires it. They could be a junior developer, as this was the stage I found myself in early on.

Basic Assumptions

They are probably not very experienced in the technologies mentioned as 'learned.' At some point, you likely felt capable with Ruby on Rails and Node.js. But how does sticking to one technology for an extended period benefit your development journey? While it may seem boring, it's vitally important.

Learning vs. Practical Application

During my formative years in programming, I self-taught a plethora of languages: PHP, C, Perl, Python, and even assembly language. Each one brought excitement and taught valuable lessons, particularly about Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) principles. Yet, despite all this enthusiasm, none of these projects ever went beyond small, experimental levels. So, can I write any of these languages today? The answer is no, except for PHP to some extent due to practical use.

Valuable Concepts and Mistakes

Was the time spent learning these languages wasted? Absolutely not. I gained critical insights into programming concepts, like OOP, that I applied in the real world. However, was it the most efficient approach? Without a doubt, I could have invested my time better. But as a teenager, I focused on exploration rather than efficiency.

The Transition to Ruby on Rails

In 2012, I joined a startup that used Ruby on Rails. Initially, picking it up was a breeze, but after three years of consistent use, I grew weary and craved something new. Today, I continue to work with Ruby on Rails, learning and growing from my experience. My confidence and proficiency in this framework are far greater than what I ever imagined.

Ultimately, It Depends on Your Goals

Ultimately, your goals should guide your decision. If your goal is to advance your career, frequent switching between technologies might not be the best strategy. Instead, consider changing jobs periodically to gain exposure to various codebases. Even high-opinionated frameworks like Rails offer numerous ways to solve problems.

Curious Learners: Diversify Your Knowledge

For curious learners, it's worth exploring something that diverges significantly from Rails. Elixir with the Phoenix framework presents a fascinating alternative, introducing you to the intricacies of functional programming.

Conclusion: Don't Pursue Django Just Yet

Is learning Django beneficial after mastering Ruby on Rails and Node.js? Probably not. The time spent learning Django could be better spent on something that offers a fresh perspective and challenges your current skillset. However, if you're passionate about the ecosystem and want to dive deeply into Django, it might be worth the investment.