Seeking feedback & suggestions: Learning Java + Spring Boot + Design Patterns & build product level of knowledge

Hello Everyone, I recently received feedback from my manager that I should ramp up my skills in Java, Spring Boot and design principles/patterns — so I’m kicking off a structured learning plan to move from being strong in theory to very confident in hands-on implementation.

What I’m doing:

1. Using platforms like CodeGym / HackerRank to practice Java everyday.
2. Planning to build a small Spring Boot application (REST API + database) and purposely apply some design patterns (Factory, Strategy, etc) in the code

What I need (& where you can help):

1. Suggest some good paid/free courses to learn Java & Springboot and implementation of design patterns.
2. Suggestions for mini-projects (in Spring Boot) that would let me apply design patterns (beyond the “hello­world API”).
3. Feedback or pointers on how to structure my learning/practice schedule so I can show visible progress in 4-8 weeks
4. Any tips from the community: e.g., “when I was learning this, I did X and it helped a lot”, or “this pattern is often over-used, don’t fall into that trap”.
5. How can I show my intent and showcase my manager that yes, I am learning and improving myself and he can appreciate me in the same. Thanks in advance!