I used to approach LeetCode incorrectly. I strictly followed popular curated lists like the Blind 75 and NeetCode 150 because I heard many companies use these problems to test candidates.

However, I made a common mistake: I focused on solving as many problems as possible. After a long period of “grinding,” I realized I was just memorizing solutions instead of deeply understanding the underlying patterns. Consequently, I forgot everything after just a few weeks. When I tried to revisit those problems, I struggled to solve them again.

This experience taught me that I needed a different approach. Instead of rushing, I now focus on mastering one pattern at a time, understanding the pattern. My goal is to become confident enough to solve any problem within a specific pattern.

In the past, when I got stuck, I would spend hours debugging in my local IDE and printing logs. It was time-consuming and frustrating. After watching various YouTube tutorials, learning from others’ experiences, and practicing on my own, I’ve adopted these core lessons:

• Start with the WHY? Define a strong 'Why' to stay motivated during the grind.

• Start small to build momentum (1 easy problem/ day, then increase after)

• Recognize patterns instead of trying to reinvent algorithms from scratch.

  Always identify the underlying pattern before writing a single line of code.

• Focus on mastery: Stay with one pattern until you truly understand it. Switching between patterns in the beginning is not a good idea.

• Consistency is key: Don’t take long breaks; keep the habit alive. Daily practice is my goal.

• Eliminate distractions: Create a dedicated space and time for LeetCode.

Now, with AI support, the process is much smoother. I use AI to review my code, identify bugs, and provide clear explanations on how to improve. This has significantly accelerated my progress and made the learning experience much less stressful.

My New Optimized Workflow:

1. Analyze: Understand the problem constraints.

2. Identify: Recognize the underlying pattern.

3. Implement: Code the solution.

4. Review: Use AI for code optimization and feedback.

5. Analyze Complexity: Evaluate Time and Space complexity.

6. Document: Take notes of key takeaways.

I stopped chasing the number of problems I solved.
Once I started chasing understanding instead, everything changed.

This is the screenshot of my LC progress of 2025 and below one is 2024

I realized that if I don’t maintain consistency now, I will fall back into the cycle of forgetfulness and laziness. Beyond the career goals, I began to feel a sense of unfulfillment, a feeling makes me losing my edge. That is why, this time, there are no more excuses.

Where I stand today: I have solved just over 100 LeetCode problems. However, the last time I submitted a solution was a month ago and long break between 2024 and 2025. So I am essentially starting from zero again.

Some people might ask: “Why LeetCode?” It’s a question I’ve asked myself many times. Here is my answer:

The Ticket to Big Tech: Whether we like it or not, DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) is the prerequisite for entering top-tier tech companies. It is the gatekeeper I must pass.

The Definition of a SWE: In my view, a Software Engineer must have a strong foundation in DSA. It’s not just about passing an interview; it’s about having the tools to solve complex problems efficiently. It is part of the professional “to-do list” I must complete.

A Return to my Roots: Back in high school, I loved math. Practicing LeetCode brings back that familiar feeling of solving a challenging puzzle. It’s about the joy of the “Aha!” moment.

This journey isn’t just about getting a job; it’s about reclaiming my discipline and my passion for problem-solving.

The routine is always the same: Dinner with my family, playing with my kids, and getting them to bed. By 9:00 PM, the house is finally quiet. I have exactly two hours for myself.

But there is a problem. I am exhausted. My brain feels like a battery at 1%. Thinking about complex algorithms or system design feels like an impossible mountain to climb.

This is where most people stop. This is where I used to stop.

In the past, I tried every side hustle you can imagine: Print on Demand, Crypto, Stocks. I was looking for a shortcut, a quick win. But nothing succeeded as I expected. I realized I didn’t need another “get rich quick” scheme. I needed a clear vision and a path that—while difficult—I knew I could achieve through grit.

I am a software engineer here in Texas. I was trained to write code and build applications, but I know I am capable of more.

So, I have made a choice: Go again or gain nothing. I am choosing the hard path. I am committing the next five years to a singular vision:

• Joining a FAANG company.

• Writing weekly to sharpen my technical mindset.

• Becoming a Technical Lead who masters both code and human psychology.

This blog is not written by a genius. It is written by a father and an engineer who is tired but refuses to stay stagnant. If you have ever felt too exhausted to chase your dreams, this journey is for you.

We don’t need “perfect” energy to start. We just need a decision and action.