🚀 Don't Vibe Code Your Config: How I Shot Myself in the Foot

So not long ago, I vibe-coded an app. Now, I know what you're thinking—"What in the world is vibe coding?" Well, it’s when you throw together something with enthusiasm, often with a bit of AI help, but maybe not enough caution. Spoiler alert: I really shot myself in the foot this time!

🛠️ The Background

Picture this: a friend of mine is job hunting. As someone who has been through the tedious job application process, I decided to whip up a job application tracker. What could go wrong, right?

Here’s the kicker: This was my chance to test out Claude Code, a fantastic AI tool I was excited about! However, I took a shortcut that ended up costing me dearly.

🤔 The Problem Emerges

Fast forward a few days into testing, and my beta user reached out with a distressing message:

"Hey, I can’t log in. Is something up with the app?"

Now, I naively assumed it was a simple password issue. After all, who doesn’t forget their password sometimes? But, oh no, I was in for a rude awakening!

🚨 What Went Wrong?

I quickly checked the database for users.

• Last user? Nothing.
• First user? Still nothing!
• All users? Zilch!

Let’s just say my app was as empty as my fridge post-dinner.

🗑️ Why the Database Wiped Out?

Turns out, I was using SQLite without any configuration. And, yes, even in production. It was a decision made in the name of simplicity. Here’s the kicker: SQLite stores the database as a regular file. So every time my Docker container restarted, that file got wiped clean.

💡 The Fix: Optimize Your Configurations

So, how do we fix this? Compound the mistake by moving to Postgres. It’s what I prefer since it has better options for production environments.

A quick detour with Render: I followed their docs to set up a Postgres service, and you know what? It didn’t take long! A simple, effective solution to my catastrophic problem—thank you, documentation!

🤔 Was It Really Vibe Coding That Caused the Problem?

Let’s keep it real: No, this wasn’t just about vibe coding. The real issue was that I didn’t apply enough human thought where it was needed the most.

⚡ The Takeaway

Vibe coding can be fun, but here’s the key: distinguish between two usage categories for AI tools:

• Fun Projects: These can be experimental and forgiving.
• Real Projects: These deserve your full attention and contemplation.

In this case, tracking my user's data should’ve warranted my utmost caution! If you take anything away from this tale, let it be to treat your real projects with the care they deserve—because nothing stings more than losing data that your users depend on!

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