I thought I would have accomplished a lot more today and also before I was 35 (newyorker.com)

Article summary

The article is a humorous and relatable piece about a person who feels they have not accomplished enough in their life, particularly by the age of 35. The author reflects on their lack of productivity, missed opportunities, and unfulfilled goals, such as learning French, writing a book, and giving a TED talk. The piece is a lighthearted and satirical take on the pressures of adulthood and the feeling of not meeting one's own expectations. The author's stream-of-consciousness narrative reveals their inner struggles and regrets.

Main themes

• productivity and time management
• adulthood and expectations
• video games and education
• mental health and invisible disability
• personal growth and self-improvement
• external validation and societal pressure

What commenters say

• Some people believe that having a lot of free time can actually lead to wasting it, and that having a busy schedule can help prioritize tasks and increase productivity.
• Others argue that what is often labeled as laziness can actually be a sign of underlying issues such as exhaustion, invisible disability, or other hidden problems.
• Playing video games can be a valuable and educational experience that can help develop skills and provide a sense of community and accomplishment.
• The value of an activity should not be determined by external validation, but rather by the value it provides to the individual and their community.
• Some people feel that time spent playing video games is a waste, while others see it as a valuable part of their life that has helped shape who they are today.
• The idea that one should be proud of accomplishments that meet external scrutiny can be limiting and may lead to people acting contrary to their beliefs.
• The distinction between slack and laziness is important, and people should focus on providing value to their community rather than seeking external approval.