Do you enjoy programming or do you see it as a means to an end (start a business)?
brianto2010: Yes, I do enjoy programming. Sometimes, it is a means to an end for me (as in to accomplish a task, not a business), but is nonetheless fun.Typically, I find the most enjoyment out of programming when I am working on projects I want to work on. The sheer joy of seeing your creation come to life from your own two hands is immeasurable. Even fighting (and conquering) bugs and the compiler is thrilling, despite the superficial swearing.Programming as a means to an end is also enjoyable, given certain circumstances. For example, I still feel a rush when I crank out a memorized quadratic solver program or trapezoid rule program on a TI-83/84 for a friend or classmate in math class. Also, I get my work done much faster.However, programming as a required task is unpleasant. In my AP Computer Science course, I am required to create derivative "Bug" classes from the GridWorld API and hand it in. It is utterly boring! I feel like a code monkey every second while programming that monstrosity. It offers no benefit for me at all. The only thing I get out of the ordeal is a stupid little number (actually letter) that goes on my transcript. By the way, I also learn all essential topics (like data structures) outside of class, so I really feel like I am not missing anything interesting or useful.At the risk of being proved incorrect or downmodded, I will offer an analogy:Programming is like an arts-n-crafts class when you were a child. You get to create neat-looking bracelets, necklaces, ceramics, or origami in a relatively short time, but with full excitement. Best of all, you get to keep your creation and treasure it forever. That is the true reward.Programming is also like a pointless required class in grade school. You do relatively boring projects just to fill out the graduation requirements and the only reward you get is a small number placed in the top-right corner of your paper which might give you bragging rights, if at all.For me, programming merely for the hell of it is fun.