[Mz]

I am unfortunately at work. I usually do not log into HN from work. I am doing so as a curtesy to you. Any other replies I might care to make can wait until tonight.

it feels like you're doing a bit of the same by claiming that everybody who wants to change the world are doing so only because they're projecting.

You left out the words "overwhelming need". It speaks of desperation, which is very different from having goals.

All too often in life I've been happy just coasting along, taking the easy road in front of me, pursuing good grades in earnest, working hard, and making a good living at interesting jobs. That brings me no closer to my goals in life though, that's not my dream.

I have never coasted or taken the easy road. I have consistently chosen the hard road. And please note you are stating that your desire to change the world is a personal need, not really for the benefit of the world, but to satisfy a dream. There is nothng wrong with that. Nothing at all. But do keep in mind conflict of interest: If you really, really want to make the world a better place, it helps to take a skeptical eye towards your own motives. Setting aside my ego so I could do something of real note has been one of my biggest challenges in recent years. I would be happy to discuss it more with you, on hn or off, after I am on my own time and not my employers.

Peace.