I turned 50 this year. I was you at 23. A few things helped: I got a mentor. Perspective from fellow travellers ahead of you in their life has huge value.

I turned 50 this year. I was you at 23. A few things helped: I got a mentor. Perspective from fellow travellers ahead of you in their life has huge value. They know stuff. Get them to share hard won tips. Watch them lead vibrant lives. When I was 12, I was walking to the store along a country road. Had a singular realization: "I want to put a dent in this world." As in leave a mark. Since that time, I have touched many lives. I think I will be remembered well. So many of us get trapped in a global perspective. While a good thing, it is no real measure in these terms. Do not get me wrong! Go for it. You may just knock one out of the park! But take strength and comfort in the very real impact you can have more locally. I once had a music teacher. Great guy. Touched so damn many lives... touched my own in profound ways. His funeral was unannounced. Humble, conservative family. Over 600 peeps showed up. We all shared stories. That guy made a dent just teaching music and all the subtle human things that can come along for the ride. Anyone even remotely receptive got gifts. Real understanding, perspective. That and a good understanding of music, not just notes, tech things. To this day, I still draw on that which he gave. Moral: do not sell yourself short. The world is a big place. There is room to do lots of good. So do that. Chase it. And yeah dude. Getting old sucks. Rock this place while you can. You will be able to do it longer than you think right now too. It is not all bad. Wisdom is handy to have. Experiences too. I miss a few things, like that seemingly unbounded energy. I love a few things. Like my wife who is in my corner no matter what. I am still chasing. Caught a few in my time. You will too. I am not done yet. You will not be either. Believe in that. It is truth.