Many perceived failures, from business to dating, stem from a radical underestimation of the repetitions required for success. Most problems can be solved not by more talent, but by applying an unreasonable amount of volume.
Everyone suffers regardless of their path. The key is to select goals so meaningful that the inevitable pain, uncertainty, and criticism are a worthwhile price to pay. Most people trade this fixed cost for trivial rewards.
Success isn't determined by talent but by your endurance in the face of ambiguity. The ability to continue working without guaranteed rewards for an extended period is the ultimate differentiator and the true measure of your potential.
Sadness and hopelessness are not caused by a lack of options, but a *perceived* lack of options. This perception is created by self-imposed rules and an unwillingness to make difficult trade-offs. To find solutions, you must question what you see as impossible.
The true cost of becoming great at one thing isn't the work, but the discipline to ignore all other 'shiny objects.' Success comes from the paths untaken. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is the price of focus.
Reading books or watching videos without applying the lessons is merely entertainment, not education. True learning is demonstrated only by a change in behavior under the same conditions. Until you act, you have not learned anything.