Engineering vs ux design
I’ve worked in both software engineering and ux design roles and I’m trying to pick a path forward. I really enjoy software engineering mainly because I find it intellectually stimulating and I’m always learning new things, but I’m a pretty average coder who usually only meets expectations. There are lots of software engineers who are much better than me. On the other hand, I’m a great ux designer, but I hate a lot of the design job role (sitting in useless design sprints putting stickies on walls, having to put up with endless design debates where everyone and their dog has an opinion about the UI, I don’t find design intellectually challenging, etc.). I can see myself leveling up as a designer and maybe going into design management, but I think I’ve topped out my career as a software engineer. Would you rather be average at a career you love or awesome at a career you hate?
Why not full stack?
This
UX isn’t saturated, it’s hard to find good designers.
As a UX designer, I really wish I had become an engineer instead. Dealing with all the fluff and nonsense around design is one of the worst things. You’re under scrutiny constantly, from more than just your engineer peers. Everyone from the receptionist to your taxi driver has opinions on designs. Also, usually, skills tests to get jobs are often down to whatever someone “feels” about your work, rather than the quality of it. Design is often held in much lower regard than engineering.
Maybe you feel you aren't challenged enough on the projects you're in as a UX designer, and is working on the wrong team. I definitely feel for you when everyone feels their opinions need to be heard about the UI, the copy, the project management, writing the requirements and deliverables as we move along... some of which isn't really part of the job tbh. Some days it's exhausting and you seem to be below engineers who implement your work because they pushed it live. When in reality you've been working with everyone and alongside engineers to make sure it works, functions as it should and is usable etc. You should do full stack or something.
If u hate ux don’t do it
Google has the UX Engineer role, go for that?
I enjoy UX more than software engineering, but what matters is what you care for. Personally, I’d rather be average at a career that I love, if it comes down to those two choices, and I think that ultimately you do better where you are challenged and engaged. Software engineers who can author code collaboratively, with an understanding of its context and an ability to work with design, security, business stakeholders + are a tremendous asset, so I have a feeling that you could be brilliant on the right team, but even if you truly are just average- you can make a living doing both, so why not do something where you will better enjoy your life? That said, have you considered a middle ground option? Roles are increasingly blended, so maybe you can find a spot where you have a foot in each?