You've succumbed to the shoulds. You don't live the life you want — you live the life you should. Who set about the traps in which you fall? Who lied and said you couldn't have it all? Be a man; stand tall for what you want. Eschew comfort, propriety and the prescribed path. What awaits you there but false security, unfulfillment and empty promises? Why do you acquiesce to others’ thoughts of how you should be? The right idea at the right time could alter the course of your entire life. Do you think there are exceptionally gifted people–geniuses–and no one else need apply? They are humans like you.

A run in the business world to substitute effort for talent. A dogged persistence to conform, accomplish and satisfy the requirement of a man. A vow to support your family, bring honor to your name, to live a true life, independent of muddling influences or groveling. A humble, true life is better, but the sting of poverty wards you away. What if money doesn't come with your dreams’ fulfillment? What will you then? Is it a prerequisite? Is it a dealbreaker? Does it hold as much power over you as you think?

Responsibility. Prudence. Expectation. You’re trapped by your own. You want to control every step of your journey. Even your dissolution is calculated. What would happen if you were left to your own devices? What would environmental forces do if your intention wasn't pure? And now? You want to do this all the time? Your ‘this’ may not bring any utility to the world. To anyone but yourself. Yet you insist on continuing.

Is that not selfish? What goes to the common good? Are you a taker? In exchange, you provide this service. Do you need the applause to tell you you've had a good run? Is that the demarcator of a job well done? If they stop clapping, do you go home? Do you close up shop? What if the applause entices you with its noxious fumes? Do you pander to the crowd, Panzer man? Your integrity!

All of these tropes from a man who wishes to write and live simply and love completely. Forego acclaim and worldly attention. If you never meet your readers in this life, be at peace with it. If you must create assuredly, connect with truth and indelibly mark your work. The mechanics of life are a necessary boredom. Grinding, important and you'll be tasked with these simple chores all your life. But don't bungle the two. What do you go on for? How are you providing usefulness? How are you an instrument? An unused tool is all potential energy. Act. Do. Make.