Advanced Math, Empty Hours

I used to be the kid who actually liked math. It felt like a secret code I could crack—until I realized how little it mattered outside the classroom. I spent years grinding through advanced equations, proofs, and formulas I’ll never use. Not once has anyone asked me to solve a differential equation in real life. I kept telling myself it was about discipline, or logic, or some vague promise of being ‘prepared.’ But prepared for what? I could have spent that time learning something that mattered to me, something I’d actually use. I know people say it’s about building your brain, but there are other ways to do that—ways that don’t leave you staring at a blank test page, wondering why you feel so empty. I loved math, but I resent how much of my life it took up. I wish someone had told me it was okay to let go. #AcademicBurnout #CurriculumRant #RealLifeSkills #Education