Your Artist's Path · blog

Artist's Path for programmers: the practice that most senior devs adopt

"I'm a programmer, this art thing is not my thing." And yet, a surprising number of senior developers practice morning pages. Brian Chesky, Reid Hoffman and other founders talk about similar practices. Here's why it fits with programming.

Why do programmers respond well to the Camino?

Three technical reasons. First: programming is complex problem solving — pages drain mental noise and leave cognitive capacity free. Second: the dev's work is solitary and mental — the artist's appointment rebalances with physical sensory stimulation. Third: burnout in tech is structural — Cameron prevents it.

What technical benefits does it bring to programmers?

Five changes reported consistently.

Technical benefits:

How to fit it with an intense tech life?

Four tactics that work for developers.

Lace with tech life:

Founders and CTOs who practice something similar?

Brian Chesky (Airbnb) talks about daily solitary walk time. Tim Ferriss uses similar morning journaling. Reid Hoffman has a weekly reflection routine. Common pattern: protected time with no productive goal.

No one uses exactly Cameron but they all agree on the principle: aimless creative time + daily mental download.

Frequently asked questions

Does it work with ADHD (common in devs)?

Yes, see specific post on ADHD and morning pages. Works better than expected.

Is it suitable for ML/AI engineers?

Yes, especially. Working with models requires sustained creativity — Cameron keeps the well.

Is it okay to write pages in code out of habit?

No, follow the method: paper and pencil, natural language. The change of medium is part of the benefit.

How long does it take to notice an effect in my code?

4-6 weeks. First you notice more general mental clarity; then it translates into better code.

Ready to start your journey?

The complete course, all 12 weeks, totally free. Morning pages, appointment with the artist, weekly exercises and community.

Get started for free →