Future You

I spent a lot of time trying to figure everything out alone because I did not dare to ask. My advice: do not wait until a question feels smart enough. Often the most important thing is simply to start the conversation.

When I was your age, I imagined all scientists as Nobel Prize winners who were so smart they did nothing but sit locked in their laboratories. Now I understand that scientists play volleyball, grow tomatoes, sometimes avoid housework, and eat kebabs too.

When it feels uncomfortable to meet someone who seems far more accomplished, I remind myself of one phrase: that person also once started from the point where I am now.

There is no point watering the grass if later you forbid children from running on it.