Try out something new and completely out for your "programming" comfort zone. That way you will be forced into doing a lot of digging which increases your awareness levels.

Consider subscribing to relevant newsletters like javascript weekly and similar. there are quite a few that aggregate infos on specific areas like: android, databases, offline, microservices etc. just google them using <topic> weekly :)

Edit: Also, don't forget Hashnode! Seems like a nice community :)

I use Hashnode & Twitter :)

There are many ways to do this. Personally, I try to keep up-to-date by following people on Twitter, which in my view is the most active source of developer information.

Another great way is to work with other people. This is especially relevant for freelance developers who work by themselves most of the time. Interacting with other people in a professional capacity means you get exposed to tons of different ways of thinking.

I use Panda in addition to Hashnode to keep updated on the latest trends, news, and technologies. I always dedicate 45 mins of my time every day to do this.

Ironically, I use Hashnode to keep myself up to date with the latest and greatest technologies in software development. Reading through links and stories published on Hashnode I gain a lot of useful information about what fellow developers are using and what technologies are getting more attention. Communicating with developers from all over the world gives you a realistic view at the current state of software development.

Aside from Hashnode, I also check Github Trending regularly to see what other developers are interested in.