I used to want to do a PhD in English Literature. I had a vague idea that it was my "calling" and that being a published academic would vanquish my insecurities

I used to want to do a PhD in English Literature. I had a vague idea that it was my "calling" and that being a published academic would vanquish my insecurities. It would have been a disaster. Academia looks miserable. I can achieve far more as a programmer, and I get paid enough to live a rich and fulfilling life on top.