Is it possible to excel in website design and be a proficient programmer? Specifically, in the domains of PHP, JavaScript, CSS, HTML, CMS 1C Bitrix, and WordPress?

About a year and a half ago, I had the desire to learn how to create complete websites, encompassing design, both backend and frontend development, as well as SEO configurations.

Currently, I possess an intermediate level of proficiency in PHP, and in order to strengthen my knowledge, I am undertaking a PHP course offered by Qsoft through Skillbox.

Seven months ago, I started learning how to design websites using Photoshop, while also taking Skillbox courses.

However, I face a dilemma. When I focus on practicing web design and neglect coding for a week, I tend to forget important aspects and effective solutions related to PHP and 1C Bitrix.

Similarly, when I switch my attention back to programming, I experience a slight decrease in my design skills and efficiency.

How should I navigate this situation? I often come across advice during webinars suggesting that one should focus on one thing at a time, such as doing SMM or choosing between VK advertising and Instagram.

Nevertheless, I genuinely enjoy both web design and programming, and I am unwilling to give up either. I can spend an entire weekend dedicating myself to both design and writing code.

Perhaps I should consider alternating between design-focused days and programming-focused days, or exploring alternative solutions.

If anyone has encountered a similar situation and found a good solution, I would greatly appreciate your advice. Thank you in advance.

Finding a balance between web design and programming can be challenging, but it is definitely possible to excel in both areas. Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate this situation:

1. Alternate Focus: Consider dedicating specific days or blocks of time to focus solely on web design and others on programming. This way, you can immerse yourself fully in each area without feeling overwhelmed or neglecting important aspects.

2. Create Projects: Engage in projects that require both web design and programming skills. By working on real-life projects, you can apply your knowledge and improve in both areas simultaneously.

3. Collaborate with Others: Partner with fellow designers or programmers who have complementary skills. This way, you can share the workload and benefit from each other's expertise. Collaboration can also provide opportunities for learning and growth in both areas.

4. Continuous Learning: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in both web design and programming. Stay updated on new approaches and tools that can make your work more efficient and effective.

5. Prioritize and Set Goals: Clearly define your goals and prioritize your tasks based on what is most important to you. This way, you can allocate your time and energy accordingly and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

6. Utilize Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): IDEs can be a valuable asset for improving your efficiency in both web design and programming. Look for IDEs that support multiple languages and have features specifically tailored to web development.

7. Stay Organized: Use project management tools or techniques to keep track of your tasks, deadlines, and progress in both web design and programming. Being organized will help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

8. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key when it comes to developing skills. Set aside dedicated time each week to practice both web design and programming. By regularly exercising these skills, you can maintain proficiency in both areas.

9. Take Advantage of Online Resources: There are plenty of online resources available for learning and improving in web design and programming. Explore tutorials, forums, and coding communities to expand your knowledge and connect with others in the field.

10. Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends: The world of web design and programming is constantly evolving. Stay informed about new techniques, frameworks, and technologies that can enhance your work in both areas. Attend conferences, read industry blogs, and follow influential figures in the field to stay current.

11. Networking: Connect with professionals in the web design and programming industries. Attend meetups, conferences, or join online communities to network with others who have similar interests. Engaging with professionals can provide valuable advice, mentorship, and potential collaboration opportunities.

12. Personal Projects: Undertake personal projects that allow you to exercise both your design and programming skills. This way, you can work on projects that truly interest you and help you strengthen your abilities in both areas simultaneously.

13. Continuous Learning: Set aside time for continuous learning in both web design and programming. Take courses, watch tutorials, or read books that cover topics relevant to your interests. By continuously expanding your knowledge, you can enhance your proficiency in both domains.

14. Find Crossover Opportunities: Look for opportunities where web design and programming intersect. For example, explore front-end development frameworks like React or Angular that require both design and programming skills. By focusing on these crossover areas, you can leverage your existing skills and become more efficient in both web design and programming.

15. Embrace Flexibility: Recognize that your focus may naturally shift between web design and programming at times. Instead of viewing it as a dilemma, embrace the flexibility that comes with being skilled in both areas. Embrace the fact that your skills in one area can inform and benefit the other.

To truly excel in any field, undivided attention and focus are essential. Attempting to pursue multiple specializations simultaneously often results in mediocre proficiency in both areas.

It is beneficial to explore various specializations to expand one's knowledge and perspectives. However, achieving a high level of proficiency in each specialization is unlikely.

Learning and mastering a single specialization allows for deeper understanding and expertise. It is crucial to prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to acquiring new skills or knowledge.

I find myself in a similar situation. I have accumulated over 10 years of experience in graph and UI design. While I have dabbled in various aspects of development, my main focus has been on front-end work. However, due to the constant switching, my growth in this area has not been as fast as desired. Therefore, I am looking to choose a clear direction for my future development. I see two options here: the first option is to prioritize the area where I have the most work experience and consider front-end as a complementary skill. The second option, on the contrary, is to prioritize front-end work and consider other areas as secondary competences.

My advice to you is to create a couple of well-designed and functional home projects that showcase both your interface and development skills. It would be ideal if these projects can be applied in real-life situations, essentially making them product work. Including these projects in your portfolio will emphasize your proficiency in related areas, which is a significant advantage.

Many people talk about the importance of "seamless" design and development. Furthermore, it's crucial to choose a primary focus and continue developing related skills.

While it is possible to combine both creative design and programming, it can be challenging. It's akin to working at CERN during the day and creating children's illustrations in the evening; a rare combination indeed.