Should I just learn C# .NET, and Xamarin to switch careers from?
C# and Java are typically the hardest languages to learn in terms of mobile or web applications. The both the spring and .net frameworks are monsters (like they are huge). I dont know the popularity of developing mobile apps with that framework or the number of jobs hiring for c# developers in your area. I would say that it would require a substantial amount of time before you could deploy anything and especially if you are going the self taught route while still holding on to your current job, then it would take even longer (1 year or more). That being said, if you really enjoy programming then its a no brainer. I dont even know why anyone would ask this question. I rarely ever asked anyone for permission to do programming because I just enjoyed it so much that I would still do it even if it didnt pay. Edit: no it isnt easy to get a job (especially one that pays), but thats relative to your skill level and dedication.