undefined | Better HN

0 pointsjebarker5h ago0 comments

“Comparison is the thief of joy.”

Do the math because you enjoy doing the math and if you do it long enough you may well do something of value to someone else. Same goes for most intellectual and artistic pursuits I think.

I’ve learned for myself that as soon as enjoyment is based on some future achievement or ranking my work against others the day to day satisfaction dries up.

0 comments

r_lee5h ago

and so how exactly are you supposed to provide for your family in this scenario?

jebarkerOP4h ago

By having a job. If that job is the same as your intellectual/artistic pursuit then you have to balance the needs of satisfying your employer and what keeps your motivation going over the long term. All I’m saying is that worrying too much about future achievement or “great contributions” are a recipe for burnout and disappointment.

codechicago2775h ago

Could work in a patent office or something.

j / k navigate · click thread line to collapse