I have seen businesses thrive with bad code. But it's painful to work on that code. Near soul destroying. I've also seen a good lead come in and rescue the dir

I have seen businesses thrive with bad code. But it's painful to work on that code. Near soul destroying. I've also seen a good lead come in and rescue the direction of the code. That requires expertise in the language, a good understanding of how to rescue legacy code and political power within the organisation. If you have to work with bad code make sure you find ways to enjoy work. Also don't allow yourself to think you're a bad Dev because you can't work fast. It's the code not you. If no one will allow you to get tests in place and fix it, it's not your fault.