If you want to
learn calculus, don't ignore learning the basics of addition
and subtraction (that is, if you really intend to get around
to calculus, ultimately).
If you want to be president some day, don't think you can bypass
community service, carefully studying policy issues and the role
of government, and developing a personal leadership style and
a public persona.
If you merely want to be happy and have a productive life, don't
wait until you're vice-president of the bank with a big salary,
great perks, retirement plan, and a lovely wife/husband and smart
kids.
You start with
being who you are, where you are, and looking at what's required
to get where you want to go.
If you need more schooling, and you really think it's worth the
time and effort to achieve your goals, then go to school! If
you want a beautiful house but don't have money for a down payment,
and you really believe that owning a particular home will make
you happy, then sacrifice a little to save for the down payment!
On the other hand, you may just decide after reviewing all your
options, "Hey, it's not so bad being where I am!"
When talent
and energy don't match expectations, at least one (if not all
three) needs a good hard look.