I am like this too. For me, I find that using a curriculum as a means to an end does three things: 1. Applying your knowledge forces you to confront the gaps o

I am like this too. For me, I find that using a curriculum as a means to an end does three things: 1. Applying your knowledge forces you to confront the gaps or uncertainties in your understanding that you would normally overlook. 2. Allows you to interleave different the topic with related subjects, which gives you a broader or more fundamental understanding of the topic. 3. Attaches an immediate utility value to your study regime, which serves as a better motivator and means to identify when to study hard and go deep, and when to gloss over.