In 2011, I used to build 1 personal side project every month.

Most of them were useless. I spent more money on hosting these projects than trying to monetize them. But I didn't think of them as a waste of time or money.

As Software Engineers, we love to create new things.

I am sure you would have also built some kind of side projects during your free time.

Sometimes, you would feel it's not worth pursuing it because no one is using it. Or maybe you thought it would grow into a startup that you would be proud of. Or you found the next shiny object and dropped this one.

Whatever happened to your side project, it doesn't matter.

Here are 5 reasons why you should keep doing side projects:

1. They are Fun

Think of them as a hobby you do in your free time. You do it because you love it, not for the money.

2. They are a great learning experience

Whenever I wanted to learn some new technology or framework, I take up a side project and try to use it as a learning exercise.

3. They are a productive way to spend free time

Instead of wasting time on Youtube or Netflix feeding off the algorithm, why not spend your free time building something that you would like and use?

4. They make you creative

If you keep doing the same monotonous work every day, your creative muscles would be atrophied. These side projects are a way to exercise those muscles.

5. They benefit your career

Some of my side projects have made my resume look much more attractive to potential employers than others.

What are some of your side projects that you are thinking of building? Post them below.