How old are you and where do you live? This is similar to how I felt during my two-three years of university. Some people already suggested that, but I will r

How old are you and where do you live? This is similar to how I felt during my two-three years of university. Some people already suggested that, but I will repeat: - find a hobby outside of computers (like Salsa) - sign up in an NGO (Toastmasters, AIESEC in my case) - cut off internet cord to force yourself to program outside of your home - absolutely remove all instant messengers, ircs etc. if you want to socialize with people then go out and eat lunch with them. if you don't know any people irl (or afk ;) then go and meet some on networking meetings / parties Perhaps the most important thing is that you need to broaden your horizons. I know it may sound like a heresy, but a good programmer is a one that "feels the real world". If you lack social skills and you lack interests outside of programming then this will influence the quality of your work. Why? For one - you will have problems working in a team of programmers. Two - if you're into anything else than low-level systems programming then you will need to interact with people who are not programmers. Not understanding normal users will hurt your career a lot. Oh - and if your city doesn't have enough people interested in programming then move as soon as possible. Living far away from a community will hurt a lot (if you want to be really good).