No matter how much we want to overthink or dwell on issues, there's usually a simple solution. We may not like the simple solution, but it's always there. Water off a duck's back goes a long way!

Perspective is on point. It's so easy to get caught in the minutia of daily life. Most of us have it pretty damn good. Young strong body, surrounded by great friends and community, and opportunity around every corner. It's important to zoom out and realize that often. People do it in all different ways: running, fighting, writing, lifting, talking. Whatever works for you, make sure you give yourself plenty of it. I like to write. It's not uncommon for me to literally laugh out loud when I'm writing down my "problems" as I realize how silly they truly are.

I have a couple thoughts. First of all, congratulations on asking for what you think you deserve. That isn't easy. I think a lot of us are hesitant to ask for more, even if we deserve it, mainly due to societal pressures. But it's more ridiculous to believe that we should be paid any other amount than what we deserve and what we earn. There are a few things that have helped me when asking for raises: 1) Bring lots of data. Numbers, growth, facts, etc. Undeniable stuff 2) Make it a team conversation. Let your boss know that you are excited to continue on project X,Y,Z, and that you just want to be treated competitively. If you frame it in a way that suggests an ultimatum or an ego battle, bosses will get defensive. 3) As a thought experiment, think of how the business would run if you disappeared. Most likely, a lot of that work would go to your boss. How much would that suck for them? That is exactly how much you are worth to them. 4) Have your own set of numbers ready. Know what is a competitive value in the market. Once you have that, you can surround it with your dream number, a number you'd be happy with, and the lowest you'll go. That way, when the conversation starts moving quickly, you'll know exactly where you stand. Good luck, and let us know how it goes for you! I am sure you will crush it. Walk in there with some swagger!

Thanks for being here Andrew. You're always crushing on the leaderboards and a super valuable part of the community!

100%. Once you stop playing, you're basically dead. That article was very interesting. Totally contrary to what you'd think. But overall, I think building an athlete is done best through versatility.

@Andrew Ostrosky it seems like you need some kind of designation within the group. The brainiac, the polymath, the professor, the savant, whiz the kid, the intellectual. Participation has gone from cerebral to even more cerebral plus cited literature. Glad to have you here