skill rot
I'm big on AI tooling. I'm absolutely more productive at work with it, and I've been working with borderline no handwritten code since October 25.
But, it's leading to a double rot, I think... I worry.
My ability to write code has definitely diminished. I can still read it and review it fine, but putting my hand to the keys is definitely harder. The syntax escapes me more. I'm working on Flagdown right now to enjoy some craft, and getting this skill back.
The other rot, probably much worse, is my ability to deep design in my head. I can, and still do every day, but I think my attention span is worse - I'm always looking to context switch 'to be more productive' but I actually think I'm dodging the fact I'm finding it harder.
So, what's left? Human perspective, input, and opinions against the norm. Effectively, craft.
I'm trying to bring craft back to more of my day-to-day, somehow. Ultimately I think it is what makes you a great engineer.