Getting started with open source can feel overwhelming. There are so many projects, tools, and processes that it’s hard to know where to begin. If you’re a tech enthusiast eager to contribute but unsure how to fit it into your busy day, you are not alone.
The good news is that contributing to open source is a journey made easier by adopting simple daily habits. By breaking down contributions into small, manageable actions you can fit into your day, you will steadily build confidence, skills, and connections within the community.
This article will guide tech enthusiasts like you on the path to contributing to open source by introducing three simple, effective daily habits to build momentum, overcome hurdles, and keep motivation high.
Your 3 Daily Habits To Contribute To Open Source
Habit 1 — Explore and Learn a Little Each Day
Why: To contribute to open source confidently, you need to understand the tools and projects. Spending just 15-20 minutes daily learning Git, GitHub, or reading a project’s README file makes these concepts second nature.
How: Dedicate a daily time slot to watch short tutorials, read simple guides on Git and GitHub, or explore beginner-friendly open source projects on platforms like GitHub Explore.
Cue: Right after your morning coffee or start of a work/study session.
Habit 2 — Tackle One Small Task or Issue
Why: Open source contributions start with small steps like fixing typos, improving documentation, or addressing beginner-friendly issues. These add value and build your confidence.
How: Each day, pick a simple task from labels like “good first issue” or “help wanted” in the chosen project. Make and commit your changes, then open a pull request.
Cue: After your daily learning session or whenever you have a focused 30-minute block.
Habit 3 — Engage and Connect With the Community
Why: Being part of the open source community provides support, mentorship, and motivation which makes contributions more rewarding.
How: Spend a few minutes daily reading discussions, commenting on issues politely, or joining chats in Slack, Discord, or forums related to your projects.
Cue: During a lunch break or a relaxing moment in the evening.
Week 1 Schedule
| Day | Daily Habit 1 | Daily Habit 2 | Daily Habit 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Learn Git basics | Find a “good first issue” | Join project Slack channel |
| Tuesday | Read README for project | Fix a typo in documentation | Comment on an open issue |
| Wednesday | Watch GitHub tutorial | Create a branch and clone repo | Ask a question in community chat |
| Thursday | Explore beginner issues | Make your first commit | Review pull requests from others |
| Friday | Read CONTRIBUTING file | Open your first pull request | Thank contributors publicly |
| Saturday | Learn Git pull requests | Test your code changes | Follow project maintainers on social |
| Sunday | Reflect on what you learned | Plan next week’s tasks | Share your experience in a blog or tweet |
Troubleshooting
Barrier: Feeling overwhelmed by complex project setup or terminology.
Fix: Break your learning into daily habit 1. Use beginner-friendly resources and take notes to simplify concepts over time.
Barrier: Getting stuck on code or pull request feedback.
Fix: Reach out politely in the community (habit 3). Ask questions, review others’ advice, and don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks.
Barrier: Losing motivation after slow or no feedback.
Fix: Keep daily habits consistent. Celebrate small wins, contribute to multiple projects, and connect with peers to stay inspired.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to be an expert coder to contribute to open source?
A: No, you can start by fixing documentation, reporting issues, or testing. The daily habits here help you grow skills gradually.
Q: How much time should I dedicate to contribute effectively?
A: Even 20-30 minutes daily focused on small tasks makes a big difference over weeks. Consistency matters more than lengthy sessions.
Q: What if my pull request is not accepted?
A: This happens sometimes. Use feedback to learn and improve. Keep engaging with the community and try again with new tasks.
Tracking & Motivation Tips
Tracking your progress with a simple checklist or journal helps maintain your focus on the contribute to open source journey. Celebrate each pull request, feedback, or community interaction. Consider using apps or calendars to mark daily habits completed. Sharing milestones with peers or mentor can boost your motivation and help you keep going.
Key Takeaways To Contribute To Open Source
Contributing to open source is achievable for tech enthusiasts with the right approach. By adopting the three daily habits of learning, doing small tasks, and engaging with the community, you build skills and confidence step-by-step. Remember that consistency beats intensity, and every small contribution adds value. Stay curious, be friendly, and enjoy your growing role in the open source world!
Join the Waitlist
Ready to put these habits into action? Dayspire helps you reach any goal with simple daily habits. Join the waitlist now to be the first to get invited to Dayspire!
