I especially like the Moving Towards the Goal trick, since doubting between possible "life projects" and related fields of study is my number one nemesis in getting things done.
For the level hopping, I tend to do a little more hardcore version : setting a quite impossible goal (like learning quantum computation in a month). I keep doing it mostly because of the thrill of the impossible challenge (use of my ego) and the fact that failure isn't quite stressing anymore. My goal is by definition impossible, so the point is to complete it as much as possible, not to perfectly finish it.
I'm astonished. Absolutely on my ass. You used your guilt when having "useless activities" to actually do something productive! Why on Earth didn't I think of that? I feel quite like you explained, never satisfied or relaxed by activities not improving my skills and my intellectual abilities. But, following my entourage's advices, I always tried to force myself to enjoy "having fun". Whereas I should have done the opposite!
Thank you. Really.
Hello LessWrongers! After discovering the blog and MIRI research papers through a friend (Gyrodiot ) a few weeks ago, I finally decided to register here. For I keep seeing fascinating discussions I want to be part of, and I also would like to share my ideas about IA and rationnalism.
Currently, I am a first year student in an french Engineering school in Computer science and applied mathematics. Before that, I was in "Classes Préparatoires" for two years, an intensive formation in mathematics and physics to pass engineering school contests. Even ...
First, thanks to both of you for writing this really nice paper. I have two questions, which are more about my understanding (or lack thereof) than about issues with the work.
My first question is some example I have in mind, and if my classification for it makes sense. In this example, the regulator is a grant-maker, and the agents are researchers in a field that is very theoretical. Our regulator wants to optimize for as much concrete applications as possible, regardless of what researchers are interested in (any similarity with the real world is obvious... (read more)