If I met you in person, I would probably be too embarrassed to say: don't make my mistakes.

For what it's worth, I suggest you first find something worth working hard on, and then work really, really hard on it. I'd further suggest that, even if you're not quite sure that you've found the one true task that is your calling, maybe you should still take a bit of time busting your ass on whatever task may be in front of you. After a while, you could reasonably then step back and reflect on whether you're using your talents wisely. Maybe you should then choose some other goal to bust your ass for. But don't completely waste your time like I did.

I've seen some of your posts. I think you're more talented than I ever was.* However, I also wouldn't mean any offense by suggesting that you might not be quite as talented as Isaac Newton. The reason I bring it up is because I think everyone can agree that Isaac Newton had a lot of basic native talent, but also, he worked himself like a dog for years.

• I offer this compliment through gritted teeth, but not with personal animosity. I envy you. I would give a lot to be as smart and as young as you. Too late for me, though. I really, really wish you the best. Don't fuck it up.