Previously, I'd decided that anything that came easily to me, must be easy for others as well. I figured that I should find something that was challenging for me, as it'd be challenging for everyone else, and I'd be able to succeed by virtue of sheer work ethic and determination.
In hindsight, people are talented at different things, and "Computer science isn't challenging, so let's do biochemistry instead!" is a terrible thought process.
This is the public group instrumental rationality diary for December 1-15.
Thanks to cata for starting the Group Rationality Diary posts, and to commenters for participating.
Immediate past diary: November 16-30