When should you adopt a new programming language?

I have found that you should adapt and change you programming language to meet the requirements of the project. Even when the ideal language for the project isn't your specialization. Using the right tool for the right job would makes everyone's life easier. In the past I have worked in several different programming language which didn't form part of my specialization, but I learned a lot from them. Each one has their own features, whether it is positive or negative. Having exposure to different programming languages enhances your perception and understanding of how to use a programming language to it's full potential.

Characteristics of a future-proof programming language: - Open source as anyone can review the code and make a fork if they deem it necessary. - A good number of maintainers and that they are well-established (I avoid one-person projects as it is very risky). - With a community of users of that language (developers). - Updated frequently and with a constant frequency. - LTS versions with support for 2 or more years. - Good documentation that is constantly updated in text, images and videos. - In demand by companies in job offers.

Using a programming language which is popular and has a large community certainly helps with all the catch-22 issues. But the decision on which language should be used shouldn't be determined only on the popularity of that language. Just because everyone is doing it, doesn't mean it is correct. There are a couple of things to look into when selecting a programming language, here are a few I tend to look at: - Is it a good fit for the requirements (platform, libraries, additional software/licensing, etc.)? - Is it maintained (regular updates, etc.)? - Does it provide support (documentation, support tickets, etc.)?

It's also important to consider what programming language the team you'll be collaborating with uses. It's good to unify a framework across larger teams.

I have found that many programming languages share similarities with each other. The syntax, execution, and compiling (among others) might differ. When you have been working in multiple programming languages you tend to pick up new languages fairly easy. This is one of the reasons I don't restrict myself to only one programming language. The compatibility of the programming language should be assessed based on the projects requirements (which would include a lot of other considerations such as platform, licensing, skills requirements, etc.).

A lot of factors need to be considered, and some would be project specific. Remember that the correct tool for the job isn't necessarily the easiest or most popular one. Consider as much as possible and make an informed decision.

To me this came as a requirement, that is Google made recommendations that Android Engineers should start using Kotlin, which made many companies switch. Hence, If you ask me I was soo comfortable with Java and I knew that was my passion until my work required me to learn Kotlin. At the beginning it was challenging but after 2yrs in things got better. Here's what I learned. 1. Be open to learning, things change alot 2. Don't be loyal to just 1 language, that said though once you know one language grasping a new one is always easy apart from the syntaxes. 3. If you're learning as you work ask to learn with others, this helped me alot. 4. Have fun doing it.

Different programming languages each have their own pros and cons. It is acceptable to specialize in a single language, but don't be afraid to try new ones. Some languages just do the job better than others, for specific requirements. Programming is fun and allows you to be creative (irrelevant which language you choose). Enjoy the variety and diversity the world has to offer.