How do you deal with impostor syndrome as a software contractor?

Question

Backstory: I have been hired as a software contractor, and I start work next Wednesday. The position is fully remote and requires around 50 hours per week. I am a self taught developer with 4 years of experience, and I am struggling with impostor syndrome.I am good at the languages I will be working with, but I am anxious that when I start the job, I will need some time to acclimate myself to an architecture that other people have written. Do companies usually give a contractor some time to warm up to a new environment? Do you have any tips on how I can get my bearings faster in a new environment, or on how to be a good contractor in general?

celticninja · Accepted Answer

I have worked somewhere that hires contractors, and yes there is a period of acclimation required and this so expected. Just getting the requisite software and system setup and familiarising yourself with the application is a few days.One good thing to do is take a look at a any bug lists and see I there are any quick wins you can see. This helps you get involved and to learn the system without needing to pick up an involved and complex ticket.