I just turned in your grades. It took hours of analysis. I probably poured as much time into test writing and grading as you spent on test taking and studying. If you’re like I was at your age, you probably find great meaning in your grades. I once sat under a tree for 10 minutes in frustration over an error I made on a calculus test that day. Time will heal many such wounds.

A wider perspective helps. According to a study I found while researching this book, 68% of students think a high GPA is very or extremely important for landing a job. But only 48% of hiring managers agree. I’ve seen Cs get degrees, degrees get jobs, and GPAs get washed away in the ocean of forgetfulness. I’m not suggesting you stop caring about your grades. Just keep it in perspective. It’s one input among many. Soon, folks are going to care far more about what kind of person you are and what you can do than what a piece of paper says.

There are things about yourself that you can only learn in the crucible of experience, through deliberate, rational experimentation.