I’m finding the transition from PHP + Bootstrap to newer frameworks like React, Next.js, and Laravel to be quite challenging. The setup process, with Node, Composer, and other tools, feels overwhelming. And deployment is a whole new ball game, with npm build, folder copying, and additional steps.
Does anyone else feel the same way? How are you managing this shift? Should I just dive in and learn all this new stuff step by step?
Heey there…I get it…I worked with PHP and Bootstrap for years, but my new job threw me into the deep end with newer frameworks. It was tough, but I’ve adapted and now use PHP, Vue, React, Next.js, and more. While I miss the simplicity of the old days, it’s essential to stay updated to stay relevant.
You’re definitely not alone! It’s a steep learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, the flexibility and power of these new frameworks are worth it. I suggest picking one framework and mastering it first. For me, that was Laravel—once I got comfortable with it, other tools started to make more sense.
Welcome to the world of modern web dev! 
It feels overwhelming at first, but once you get into the rhythm, it starts to make sense. I found that following a few good tutorials and getting involved in community forums really helped. Just take it one step at a time.
I started out with basic PHP and a bit of jQuery too, then made the jump to Laravel a few years ago. Learning all the new tools and workflows, especially when you’re working solo, is definitely a challenge. It’s satisfying when everything finally clicks in a project, but sometimes it feels like we’ve traded simplicity for complexity with all these new methods.
I don’t have the perfect solution, but trust me, you’re not alone. I’ve spent most of my career working with PHP and jQuery, but lately, I’ve been diving into React and Vue projects. My advice? Start by learning the basics of the build process first, just enough to get by, and then pick up the specific details as you go. Honestly, it still feels like overkill sometimes, but as others have mentioned, these tools are pretty standard now. It means other devs can easily jump in and understand your work, so it’s worth it in the end. That said, it might feel like you’re back to being a junior dev again, moving at a slower pace. But don’t stress—no one expects you to know everything right away. Just the way the others in here have told you…take it step by step… Y ou will be fine. 