Happy birthday America, my first hike, and why the Ivy League badge isn't the whole game

Happy birthday, America. 250 years old.

I disappeared for 3 days, so this one covers all of them. Mostly I was heads down on the product, which by the way is basically finished for production use now, just a few details left. Next week should be fun, a lot of demos, a lot of plans.

During those 3 days America celebrated its 250th, and I went on my first hike ever with friends. Genuinely fun. Those moments where you disappear into nature for 5 hours are a truly clear mind. Funny enough how it happened, almost by accident.

On July 3rd, Makar was in town for a short Antler tour. He's from Ukraine, we started a random conversation and found a lot in common. Next day we were hiking together.

I was even a little bit jealous, since he goes to MIT. I always say education isn't really worth it in my opinion, but I always wanted at least the experience of a few months in an Ivy League school. Even though deep down I know I'd probably be disappointed, the same way I once was after getting into the best high school in the Czech Republic.

Overall, the status of being in an Ivy is great to have, but it never gives you leverage for success on its own. The badge can help sometimes, but if you actually calculate how much effort it takes to get it, you start questioning if it's worth the investment. Sometimes yes, sometimes not, it really depends on your goals and your personality. But I think it's important to decide for yourself whether it's the right choice or not, instead of assuming the badge is the win.

I also set up a "second brain" this week, really useful stuff, thanks to my friend Bohdan for the advice. In the future I believe you'll just have one wearable tracking everything and writing context for you automatically. My prediction is 2-3 years out.