Re: [ukmarkj] Outlook on life
I had a hard time growing up too. I never felt like I fit in. I felt numb, under-stimulated, and unfulfilled. I eventually found satisfaction through jumping and now through science as well. But, there is a key difference between you and me and it's one that you need to understand.
You will never feel fulfilled if you don't work for anything. I did not grow up in a wealthy family. If I wanted to do something, I had to work for it. I put in the hours, got the grades, the scholarships, the degrees, the 9-5 job. I busted my ass to get where I am and that is in large part what changed my life. It made me a more well rounded person. I feel that I can accomplish anything I want to.
I love my job because it allows me to challenge myself intellectually in the field of computer science / pattern recognition. I skydive or BASE jump every weekend. I love taking a big wingsuit out and surfing big puffies for minutes at a time.
I didn't just one day become happy and fulfilled. It came after years of ambition, dedication, and seasoning. Make a set of rules to live by and follow them. Have a plan. Do what you enjoy and try not to kill yourself in the process. Be very cognizant of the line where your skill runs out. It's critical to recognize it and respect it. Everyone makes mistakes.