My Posts

• 

  @hamed on Nov. 17, 2024, 7:02 a.m.

  Upgrading Ubuntu 22.04 to 24.04: A Nextcloud Odyssey

  A Tale of Trials and Triumphs

  Recently, I dared on the journey of upgrading my Ubuntu server from 22.04 to 24.04. While the process itself was relatively smooth, I encountered a few hiccups with my Nextcloud instance.

  The Challenge:

  After the upgrade, my Nextcloud instance was experiencing various issues, primarily related to performance and functionality. The root cause turned out to be a combination of missing PHP packages and misconfigured server settings.

  The Troubleshooting Journey:

  1. Missing PHP Packages: The first hurdle was the absence of essential PHP packages. These packages, which are crucial for Nextcloud's optimal performance, were not automatically installed during the upgrade process. To resolve this, I had to manually install the missing packages, specifically the PHP Redis extension.

  2. Misconfigured Nginx: The second challenge involved Nginx configuration. The upgrade process didn't automatically update the Nginx configuration to point to the new PHP-FPM socket. This resulted in Nextcloud requests being handled incorrectly. I had to manually edit the Nginx configuration file to point to the correct PHP-FPM socket.

  Lessons Learned and Tips for Future Upgrades:

  • Backup, Backup, Backup: Before any major system change, always create a full system backup.
  • Check PHP Package Compatibility: Ensure that all required PHP packages are installed and compatible with the new Ubuntu version.
  • Review Nginx Configuration: Double-check Nginx configurations, especially after system upgrades, to ensure they point to the correct PHP-FPM socket.
  • Test Thoroughly: After making changes, thoroughly test your Nextcloud instance to identify and resolve any issues.
  • Consult Community Forums: Online communities like the Nextcloud forum can be a valuable resource for troubleshooting and seeking advice.

  By addressing these issues, I was able to successfully restore my Nextcloud instance to full functionality. I hope this experience helps others who may encounter similar challenges during their Ubuntu upgrades.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 16, 2024, 6:09 p.m.

  Upgrading Ubuntu to 24.04: Lessons Learned with Django and NextCloud

  Today, I embarked on a journey to upgrade one of my servers from Ubuntu 22.04 to the shiny new Ubuntu 24.04. This server hosts several of my Django websites (running behind Nginx with Gunicorn) and a NextCloud instance, so I anticipated a bit of post-upgrade tweaking. But what followed was a reminder of how upgrades can disrupt even the most stable setups.

  The Upgrade Process

  The Ubuntu upgrade itself was smooth—no errors or warnings popped up during the process. After installation completed and a reboot to the new version, everything seemed to have gone well. Or so I thought.

  Django Websites Down: First Clue

  When I tested my Django websites, I noticed they weren’t accessible. Nginx was serving default error pages, and Gunicorn wasn’t doing its job. Panic didn’t set in, but I knew troubleshooting would take some time.

  Finding the Problem

  After some investigation and a bit of trial and error, I identified two issues:
  1. Virtual Environments (venv): The virtual environments for my Django projects weren’t being recognized correctly.
  2. Gunicorn Socket: The Gunicorn socket needed to be started and enabled again.

  Fixing the Issues

  To address the problems:
  1. I reactivated the virtual environments for each Django project:
  bash rm -rf .venv python3 -m venv .venv source .venv/bin/activate pip install -r requirements.txt
  This ensured that Gunicorn had the correct environment to run each project.

  1. I restarted and enabled the Gunicorn socket:
     bash sudo systemctl start gunicorn.socket sudo systemctl enable gunicorn.socket
     This brought the websites back online.

  NextCloud: A Work in Progress

  With the Django sites running smoothly again, I turned my attention to the NextCloud instance. It’s currently not operational, but I’ll be diving into its logs and configuration files to get it back up and running.

  Key Takeaways

  • Always expect some manual intervention when upgrading a server OS, especially with applications dependent on services like Nginx, Gunicorn, and Python virtual environments.
  • Double-check the state of services like Gunicorn after a major upgrade—they may need to be re-enabled.
  • Document your fixes! A note saved today will save hours in future troubleshooting.

  Now, I’m off to tackle the NextCloud issue. Hopefully, it’ll be a straightforward fix! Stay tuned.

  Have you had similar upgrade challenges? Let me know your stories in the comments!

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 14, 2024, 3:55 p.m.

  Beyond Sales: The Full Spectrum of Business Success

  In business, being a skilled seller is a great asset. The ability to understand customer needs, communicate value, and close deals can significantly increase your chances of success. But even the best salesperson will face challenges if the other parts of their business aren't equally strong.

  Success in business is about more than just selling; it's a combination of procurement, management, efficiency, customer service, and strategic planning. Each element plays a vital role in creating a well-rounded, sustainable enterprise.

  For instance, effective procurement ensures that you’re sourcing quality materials or products at the right price, laying the foundation for profitability. Strong management keeps the team aligned and the vision clear, guiding the business through challenges and growth phases. Efficiency maximizes resources, allowing you to deliver better value to your customers at lower costs. And continuous improvement in these areas means adapting to changes in the market and staying ahead of competitors.

  When you focus on improving every aspect of your business, you create a structure that is built for success. This doesn’t mean there are guarantees—business will always carry risks—but the chances of achieving your goals increase dramatically. By taking a holistic approach, addressing strengths and weaknesses across the board, and consistently improving, the probability of success can be more than 90%.

  In the end, being good at selling may open the door, but running a successful business requires the commitment to master all aspects. The journey may not be easy, but each step toward balance and improvement brings you closer to lasting success.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 14, 2024, 2:11 p.m.

  A World of Unfair Choices: Talent Left Behind

  We live in a world full of remarkable talent and potential. So many people have dreams—visions of achievements they could reach if given the right resources or support. But for countless talented individuals, these dreams remain just out of reach due to financial limitations. Meanwhile, it's no secret that money flows freely toward products and entertainment that don’t necessarily add value to our lives. The contrast is staggering: millions spent on fleeting trends, flashy products, and empty entertainment, while many passionate, gifted people are left struggling, held back simply because they lack the means to take the next step. It raises a question: Why does our society value certain things so highly while the dreams and potential of many are ignored? It’s easy to wish for a fairer world, where effort and talent would naturally be rewarded. But the reality is different. This world has never been fair, and talent and vision often go unnoticed. Hard work, dedication, and even brilliance are sometimes overshadowed by trends, mass entertainment, and superficial consumption. Yet, despite these unfair obstacles, many continue to strive. They create, invent, and persist, finding ways to pursue their dreams with whatever resources they have. Their resilience is inspiring, a reminder that while the world may not always value talent as it should, those who keep pushing forward find meaning and purpose within themselves. In a world that may never be fair, perhaps the best we can do is support those we recognize as dreamers and creators. We can choose to put our resources toward people and ideas that deserve a chance. In that way, we can help, if only a little, to bring some balance to a world that often seems so unbalanced.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 14, 2024, 1 p.m.

  The Strength Found in Solitude: Thriving Through Loneliness

  In life, we often hear about the importance of loved ones and friends to support us through struggles. There is an undeniable warmth and comfort in knowing that we’re not alone during challenging times. However, life doesn’t always present us with that support. Sometimes, we find ourselves facing the difficult moments alone. And yet, history shows that some of the most successful people not only survived periods of loneliness but thrived because of it. The journey to success is often a lonely one. As we pursue dreams and ambitions that few may understand or believe in, we are sometimes met with isolation. Friends may drift away, unable to relate to our goals, or family might worry about the sacrifices we make. For those with unconventional aspirations, the world can feel like a solitary place, where only self-belief keeps them moving forward. Yet, solitude has its own strength to offer. Without distractions, we are forced to turn inward, discovering parts of ourselves that might remain hidden in the company of others. In those quiet moments, we learn resilience. We learn how to trust our instincts and value our abilities. We understand that our journey, no matter how lonely it may seem, is preparing us for a strength that cannot be built in comfort. Many successful people have found their defining moments in such solitude. They faced the silence, the doubt, and the fear, and emerged stronger. Instead of seeing loneliness as a void, they embraced it as a space for growth. They survived, and more than that, they thrived, fueled by their own resilience. In the end, the people who walk through the valley of solitude often discover a new strength, one that not only helps them reach their dreams but also allows them to stand as pillars for others who may one day need that same guidance and encouragement.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 13, 2024, 8:27 p.m.

  A New Start and a Somber Reminder

  Today, as I find myself hopeful for new beginnings and the possibility of growth after a period of hardship, I learned of a man, close to my age, who ended his life. The news struck me like a heavy weight, and it's hard to put into words the swirl of emotions it brings up.

  For every struggle we endure, there’s the possibility of renewal, of light breaking through. Sometimes, we find that strength within ourselves, and other times, we borrow it from those around us. But that path isn't visible for everyone. Some people, despite their best efforts, may still feel isolated, as if no one can truly understand the weight they carry.

  It's a heartbreaking reminder of the silent battles people face every day. We often don’t know the full extent of each other's hardships, especially those masked by quiet smiles or stoic resolve. This moment is a sobering reminder for me—and maybe for all of us—to be kinder, to reach out, and to listen without judgment.

  To anyone feeling as though they're carrying an unbearable weight, please remember: it’s okay to seek help, to lean on those around you, to share the burden. There’s strength in asking for support and beauty in knowing that you are not alone, even when things seem darkest.

  May we all find a way to hold on to hope, and may we be there for each other through it all.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 12, 2024, 9:33 a.m.

  Sometimes, Simplicity Wins

  When I was a kid, we only had three TV channels—two national and one local. Programming for young kids was limited, so we all ended up watching the same shows. On our local channel, there was a program that featured children’s artwork, showing some of the pieces they received by mail. For us, it was a rare opportunity to be “famous,” with our name and painting shown on TV for everyone to see.

  I enjoyed drawing and painting. I often sketched scenes I could only imagine—a hut nestled by a jungle river, mountains, and rivers flowing through lush landscapes. Living in an arid region, I drew the greenery and landscapes I’d never seen in real life but glimpsed occasionally on TV. When I finished one batch of drawings, I made a simple sketch of a tulip bud on a branch, and, on a whim, I signed it with my little sister Homa's name.

  A few weeks after we mailed in our drawings, something extraordinary happened. One afternoon, people began gathering at our door, congratulating my father and saying how proud they were. They’d seen it: the TV had shown a painting, announcing, “A beautiful piece by Homa Mohammadi from Dehong.” It was as though, for a moment, our small village was lit up in the pride of shared recognition, with my father at the center, smiling at the sight of his daughter’s name on the screen.

  In that simple moment, I realized how something as small as a single drawing could bring joy and connection to an entire community. I was sad that my painting that I have put hard effort into was not shown and even no one heard my name on TV, but I learned that sometimes simplicity wins.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 12, 2024, 6:04 a.m.

  How to Set an Initial Value for a Field in Django

  In Django, setting an initial value for a form field can be useful when you want a specific default to show up in forms. Whether you’re creating a new record with a default value or updating an existing one, having a predefined initial value can make the user experience more consistent. This guide covers three ways to set an initial value for a field in Django.

  Let's say we have a model called Post with a field content. We want the content field to default to "Post content" when no value is provided. Here’s how to achieve this using three different methods:

  1. Setting a Default Value in the Model

  The easiest way to ensure a field has a specific default value is by setting it directly in the model. This approach works well when you want this default to apply every time a new record is created without an explicit value for that field.

  In models.py:

  from django.db import models
  
  class Post(models.Model):
      content = models.TextField(default="Post content")
      visibility = models.CharField(max_length=50)
      featured = models.BooleanField(default=False)
      # Other fields and methods as needed
  

  By setting default="Post content", the content field will automatically fill with "Post content" whenever a new Post is created without specifying a content value. This default applies at the database level, ensuring that all records created without explicit content will receive this value.

  Pros:

  • Simplifies code by keeping default values in the model.
  • Consistently applies the default, even if you’re not using forms to create records.

  Cons:

  • The default will apply for all records created, even those that don’t use a form.

  2. Setting an Initial Value in the Form

  If you want the default to show up specifically in a form field without setting it at the model level, you can define it in the form itself. This is helpful if the default is only meant to appear when users are interacting with a form.

  In forms.py:

  from django import forms
  from .models import Post
  
  class PostForm(forms.ModelForm):
      class Meta:
          model = Post
          fields = [
              "content",
          ]
          widgets = {
              "content": forms.Textarea(
                  attrs={"class": "form-control", "id": "id_content"}
              ),
          }
  
      def __init__(self, *args, **kwargs):
          super().__init__(*args, **kwargs)
          self.fields["content"].initial = "Post content"
  

  In this setup, every time a form instance is created, the content field will have an initial value of "Post content". This can be modified later by the user but provides a starting point when they first see the form.

  Pros:

  • The default value only appears when using the form, allowing more control over the initial display.
  • Keeps the model independent of default display logic.

  Cons:

  • Requires additional code in the form, which might become complex if you have multiple initial values across fields.

  3. Setting Initial Value in the View

  If you need a more flexible approach or want the initial value to vary depending on the context, you can set the initial value in the view. This method is particularly useful if the default value may change based on some condition, like user preferences or other factors.

  In views.py:

  from django.views.generic import CreateView
  from .models import Post
  from .forms import PostForm
  
  class PostCreateView(CreateView):
      model = Post
      form_class = PostForm
      template_name = "post_form.html"
      success_url = "/success/"
      initial = {'content': 'Post content'}
  

  Setting initial in the view provides "Post content" as the starting value for the content field. You can also set this dynamically based on request data, user preferences, or other conditions, making this a highly flexible approach.

  Pros:

  • Allows for dynamic control of initial values based on the context.
  • Keeps form code cleaner, as initial values are controlled in the view.

  Cons:

  • Adds complexity to views, which can become cumbersome if there are many fields.

  Choosing the Right Method

  Each method has its advantages, depending on your specific needs:

  • Use Model Default if you want a universal default value for a field that applies across all forms and records.
  • Use Form Initial Value if you only need the initial value in forms without impacting the model's behavior.
  • Use View Initial Value for dynamic defaults that depend on the context or user data.

  These methods provide a flexible approach to setting initial values, allowing you to choose the best solution based on how the default values will be used in your project.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 11, 2024, 6:32 p.m.

  Why Persistence is the Key to Success

  Starting anything new — whether it’s a business, a career, a fitness journey, or a creative project — is often filled with excitement and energy at the beginning. But as the challenges set in and progress feels slower than expected, it’s easy to lose heart. This is when many people give up, but those who continue to push through, learning and adapting, often see the real rewards. Let’s explore why persistence is one of the most valuable traits you can cultivate and why it always pays well in the end.

  1. Overcoming Obstacles

  Every path to success is filled with setbacks. From unexpected issues to initial failures, these challenges are a natural part of the journey. The people who keep going despite setbacks are the ones who eventually overcome them. Persistent individuals learn from their mistakes, adapt their strategies, and keep moving forward. Each challenge conquered is a building block that brings them closer to their goal.

  1. The Compounding Effect of Effort

  Success doesn’t come overnight. The small, consistent efforts that you put in each day accumulate over time, creating a compounding effect. Just as compound interest grows exponentially, so does the effect of continuous, determined effort. Persistence allows you to build skills, gather knowledge, and make progress that seems invisible in the short term but is powerful in the long run.

  1. Resilience Builds Character

  Persistent people develop resilience — the strength to endure difficult times and keep going when others might give up. This mental toughness is invaluable, especially in a world that often rewards instant gratification. Resilient individuals are better equipped to handle adversity and stay focused on long-term goals, knowing that the journey itself is shaping them into someone stronger and more capable.

  1. Trust and Credibility

  In business and life, persistence builds trust. When people see you’re committed and won’t give up at the first sign of trouble, they’re more likely to believe in you. Whether it’s clients, colleagues, or friends, people respect someone who stays true to their goals and keeps working towards them despite challenges. This trust can open doors, attract opportunities, and establish a reputation that helps in ways you might not expect.

  1. Turning Failure into Lessons

  Persistence allows you to view failures not as defeats but as lessons. Every misstep is an opportunity to learn something new, making you more prepared for future challenges. Persistent individuals don’t let failure define them; instead, they let it guide them toward smarter decisions, more effective strategies, and a deeper understanding of what’s needed to succeed.

  1. Reaching True Fulfillment

  Achieving something meaningful often requires more time and effort than we expect. But when you persist and finally reach your goal, the fulfillment is profound. You know you didn’t take shortcuts and that every step was earned through hard work. This sense of accomplishment and pride can only be experienced by those who have truly persisted and achieved success through dedication and tenacity.

  Final Thoughts

  While talent and intelligence can give you a head start, persistence is the great equalizer. It’s the one trait that levels the playing field, allowing ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things. Remember, every setback is just another step on the path, and every effort you make is a brick that builds your success. In the end, persistence always pays off — sometimes in ways you don’t even expect. So, keep going. Your goals are waiting for you to reach them, one step at a time.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 11, 2024, 1:23 a.m.

  Having Trouble Cloning a Public Git Repository?

  Here's a Quick Fix:

  If you're encountering difficulties while cloning a public Git repository, consider these simple steps:

  1. Set Up an SSH Key:
  2. Generate a Key Pair: Use a terminal or command prompt to generate a new SSH key pair: bash ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "your_email@example.com"

  3. Add the Public Key to GitHub:

     1. Log in to your GitHub account.
     2. Navigate to Settings > SSH and GPG keys.
     3. Click "New SSH key."
     4. Paste the contents of your public key file (usually ~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub) into the key text area.
     5. Add a title for the key and click "Add SSH key."

  4. Use the SSH URL:

  5. Obtain the SSH URL: You can find the SSH URL for a repository on GitHub by navigating to the repository's page and clicking the "Code" button. Choose the "SSH" option.
  6. Clone the Repository: Use the git clone command with the SSH URL: bash git clone git@github.com:username/repository_name.git

  Why Use SSH?

  • Faster and More Reliable: SSH connections are often faster and more reliable than HTTPS, especially for large repositories or frequent interactions.
  • Enhanced Security: SSH provides a secure, encrypted connection, protecting your credentials and data.
  • Seamless Authentication: With an SSH key set up, you can authenticate to GitHub without providing a password each time.

  By following these steps, you should be able to clone public Git repositories smoothly. If you continue to experience issues, double-check your SSH key configuration and network settings.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 10, 2024, 8:47 p.m.

  Why Startup Advice from Corporate Employees May Not Be the Right Fit

  When you’re starting a new venture, it’s natural to seek advice from people with industry experience. You might think that a friend or acquaintance working for a big company could provide valuable insights. After all, if they’re working at a well-established corporation, they must know what it takes to succeed, right?

  Not necessarily. Here’s why advice from an employee of a large company might not be as beneficial as it seems, and how startup life requires a mindset and experience that is often worlds apart from a corporate environment.

  1. Different Risk Tolerances

  In a big company, employees operate within a structure that cushions risks. Decisions are often made by committees, with processes to ensure stability and minimize disruptions. In contrast, startups live and breathe risk. Founders must make high-stakes decisions quickly, often with limited data and resources, which can be overwhelming for someone used to the safety net of corporate structure.

  1. Resource Availability

  Established companies have abundant resources — money, talent, and infrastructure. Startup founders, on the other hand, face constant constraints and must find creative, low-cost solutions to every problem. The employee’s advice, shaped by easy access to resources, may not be practical or relevant in a resource-scarce startup environment.

  1. Problem-Solving Approaches

  In large organizations, solutions are often well-defined within a playbook. When a problem arises, there are likely established processes or departments to handle it. Startup founders, by contrast, operate in uncharted waters with no manuals or guides. Creative, out-of-the-box thinking is essential, and experience in a structured environment may not necessarily foster this skill.

  1. Pace of Execution

  Big companies operate on longer timelines, often planning quarterly or annually. Decisions go through multiple layers of approval. In a startup, speed is everything. Founders need to act quickly, test hypotheses, pivot, and respond to feedback in real time. Advice from someone used to a slower corporate pace may lack the urgency and agility needed in the startup world.

  1. Personal Investment

  The drive that fuels a startup founder’s journey is deeply personal. For employees in large companies, the stakes are rarely personal; they have security in their roles, and their decisions are usually part of a team effort. A founder’s perspective is uniquely all-encompassing, requiring emotional resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to face repeated failures — a mindset that doesn’t easily translate from a corporate role.

  1. Market Disruption vs. Stability

  Large companies typically prioritize stability, market share, and protecting existing business models. In contrast, startups often aim to disrupt the market and introduce radical change. This disruptive mindset may not be part of a corporate employee’s experience, making it hard for them to advise on strategies that challenge the status quo.

  So, Where Can You Get the Right Advice?

  Seek out people who have gone through the startup process, whether successfully or not. Learn from their mistakes, pivots, and breakthroughs. Join startup communities or find a mentor who understands the unique demands of building a company from scratch. Their insights will likely be far more aligned with the realities you face as a founder.

  Final Thoughts

  Employees of large corporations have valuable knowledge, however, their experience often aligns with a different set of skills and priorities. Building a startup is a unique journey, with its own learning curves and challenges. By seeking advice from those who’ve been on the same path, you’ll gain perspectives that genuinely apply to your entrepreneurial journey and help you navigate the uncertainty that defines the startup world.

  Details
• 

  @hamed on Nov. 10, 2024, 6:20 p.m.

  Is it Easier or Harder Than It Looks? 💭 Ever looked at a task and thought, "That seems easy enough"? Or maybe you've felt overwhelmed by something that, in hindsight, wasn't so bad. Your perspective plays a huge role in how you perceive challenges. An optimistic outlook can make even the toughest hurdles seem manageable. On the flip side, a pessimistic view can turn a simple task into a daunting mountain. So, what's your mindset? Are you more likely to see the glass half full or half empty?

  Details