There's something about data

There's something about data. And all the tools and languages that can be used for changing, improving, cleaning, joining, deleting, updating data and automating everything around it.

In 2012 I opened Excel for the very first time and this may sound a little weird, but it changed. my. life.

When I wrote my first Excel-formula - and it actually worked - I was hooked. Now, when I run a Python webscraper I still feel that same thrill. The road from opening Excel to learning SQL, Python, Tableau wasn't one without any struggles. These are the five point that kept me going:

• Take time to learn, accepting that it's OK to not know everything right away. Learning is a process.
• Believe in yourself. There will always be better coders/programmers. Don't let that distract you.
• Keep on trying. If your attempt fails but you don't give up, you're actually not failing.
• Have an actual use-case to apply your new skills and knowledge.
• Find someone who is more senior on the topic and can clearly explain how stuff works.

Of course, these five points aren't always around, especially the last one. That's why I started somethingaboutdata.com. I like to share my knowledge, hoping that someone out there - who is struggling with the same things I struggled with - finds the answer. Enjoy!

-Thijs Jochems