The only way is the way that I've been forced to work, my entire life.
I'm a high school dropout with a GED, and some rather spotty tech training.
That means that I have had to fight, claw, and prove myself at every single step. No easy slopes for me. Double-black-diamond, the whole way. Very darwinian. Exhausting.
Fortunately, I don't have to prove myself to anyone, anymore. I am working with a bunch of folks that have known me for years, and are quite aware that I'm "for real." I don't make a dime, and don't really care. I enjoy the work.
Kind of a relief, really.
