Ask HN: How to get to interview prep and return to work after long career gap?

With 13-14 years experience I'd say you're still in a really good position despite the job market. Demand for senior people remains constant and platform experts are also in high demand while web development absorbs a lot of the entry level developers. There are less positions for mobile but also far less competition.

I really get tired of working with pretenders, because it is exceptionally clear to everyone else when they are pretending. Just be who you are. If you want to be better at something than you are then dedicate intentional practice towards it until you naturally raise your confidence.

I was laid off for six months last year, and likewise the break proved to be very fruitful for me even if depressing at first and stressful at times. My very best suggestion is to refocus not so much on your prior capabilities, but if you actually want to keep doing that or try something new. I was able to change careers from 15 years of JavaScript/full-stack developer and it has proven amazing. My prior leadership and management experience is actually valued now, I am learning new things, was recently promoted, my time (even during office hours) is highly respected by my leadership, and more. If you change careers or try something new where you are not experienced your compensation might dip at first, but if it increases your happiness it is absolutely worth it.

But really though, just show up to the interviews, sometimes you're a shoo-in and don't know it.

You said you’re not truly passionate about android dev but you have a lot of experience and you’re good at it.

Maybe there’s a company doing something you like (like maybe you’re a fan of some sport and it’s major league has a job for android dev) or on a mission you resonate with. I’m sure being interested in the mission or product is just as important (for both parties - you and the employer) as being good at android dev. I feel like being a good dev is the baseline, and the rest is the icing.

Hopefully you find the right next job that is a good fit for you.

Best,