I’m currently using windsurf, and honestly, it’s been fantastic for me. Despite some minor bugs (not a dealbreaker), I haven’t faced the issues others mention.

AI tools can do wonders—but only if you use them right.

How? By giving the AI clear and specific instructions. I shared:
• Exact requirements
• Context about the design system

The result? The AI generated code that looked great right out of the box.

3️⃣ Building a component library is no joke:
Initially, I thought it’d be easy. Spoiler: it’s not. Major kudos to people like shadcn and others who’ve created polished, functional libraries—it’s no small feat.

What’s your biggest lesson from building dev products? Drop it below! 👇

2️⃣ Momentum matters: I took too long to complete it.
Between freelance commitments, a 9–5 job, and other tasks, I lost momentum. That delay made progress harder than it needed to be. Lesson learned: keep the momentum alive at all costs!

1️⃣ Mistake 101: Building without validating the need.
I started working on this app because I thought it would be good. Big mistake. Always validate whether there’s a real need for the product before jumping in.

ahh, work! 🥲

Thanks Ryan, it's already there. You checkout an anime then you can get recommendation based on that one.

That’s it! 🎉

Need more tips or a deeper dive into any of these steps? Let me know!

9. Apply consistently
Send 6-8 proposals daily with effort and focus.

🤞 If you follow this process (and get a little lucky),
you’ll land your first gig in 24-48 hours.

8. Apply with value, not desperation

Make each proposal unique.

🎯 Focus on:
• What you can offer.
• Why you’re excited about their project.

This alone sets you apart.

7. Cover letter template

Here’s a structure that works:

“Working on [Project Name] excites me because [Your Reason]. If you need help with [specific task], let’s connect and discuss it further.

Here’s my portfolio: [Your Site]

Thank you,
[Your Name]

6. Write a concise, tailored cover letter

Make it about them and their project.

✨ No fluff. No long essays.

5. Select gigs wisely

Remember, connects are limited.

🛠 Spend time reading the job description.
✔️ Check if your skills match the requirements.
✔️ Ensure no specific criteria (like location) limits your chances.

4. Search for gigs

Use targeted keywords like:
• Frontend developer
• React developer
• Next.js fullstack developer

Add filters for best results:
• Proposals: Maximum 15
• Project length: < 1 month
• Pricing: Based on your preference (keep in min)

3. Invest in connects

On Upwork, you need connects to apply to gigs.

💡 Buy a small pack of connects—it’s worth it.
Since you’re paying, apply wisely.

2. Choose your platform

Let’s focus on Upwork.

✅ Pick your niche. For example, mine are:
• Frontend Dev
• Fullstack Dev

✅ Create a profile centered around that niche.

1. Set realistic expectations

Freelance platforms are competitive.
Your first goal?

Get that first gig and a great review.

👉 Don’t expect to land $1,000 deals when you’re just starting out with no experience or testimonials.