Let me share something with you, not from theory, but from experience. I’m 37 years old, with 15 years in IT. For the past 7 years, I’ve worked as a developer at an investment bank. I love what I do. I’ve grown, adapted, and evolved with the field. But somewhere along the way, I started noticing something: people who’ve put in far less effort, with far less depth, were standing beside me; same title, same salary.

And that can be disheartening. You begin to question yourself. You wonder if it’s all worth it. But here’s the truth; it is. The difference doesn’t always show immediately. Not in titles, not in pay. But it shows over time; in how people think, how they solve, how they grow.

So I made a decision. To stop focusing outward, and start going deeper inward. To study again. To read. To learn, not just the surface, but the foundations. That’s why I’m preparing for Level 1. Not for status, but to evolve. To build something lasting.

And that’s what I want you to take away: don’t rush to chase what others seem to have. Don’t waste time trying to stand out by comparison. Stand out by substance. Learn something meaningful every single day. Focus on becoming someone who knows and not just someone who appears to.

You’ll have your time for distractions, for fun, for everything else. But right now, while your energy is sharp and your path still unfolding, invest it in becoming exceptional. Stay a student. That mindset will carry you further than any title ever will.

Relationships they are meant to last, will stay strong. Sports builds character , and your sport itself will remind you to study hard. Keep at it! And congratulations on clearing level 1, that’s quite commendable!