I was always jealous of artists that drew really well. I do many things: write stories, compose music, do math etc. etc. But I could never draw the way I wanted. Probably due to lack of practice as I would always be occupied. But there is always this desire to be able to draw well in the back of my mind.
A few months ago I sat down with a notebook and paper and began drawing. After 3 or 4 hours of trying I finally managed to draw a woman’s face JUST the way I wanted it to be. Like, straight out of my mind.
I get a lot of compliments. I am regarded as one of the smartest in the family and people regularly comment on my skillset. I do not enjoy getting compliments. They are background noise. Since I am used to getting compliments and the knowledge I have has been gained from reading and doing stuff for fun, I never ever really felt that “achievement” feeling. Like, shit just happened man I didn’t really work for it. Well I DID but guess not enough to register as something worthwhile I suppose.
So being able to draw a face was the first feeling of achieving something in my life. And my greatest so far. Will probably remain that way for a long time.
I’ve noticed that more athletic people sometimes drop off harder. Anecdotally I was never fit but I’m in my 40s now and have never pulled my back or hamstring or anything like that.
In my case it was mostly because I’ve been REALLY sedentary for a few years but in general, athletes are always going to have more wear and tear from repetitive movements.
I can only say anecdotally for the nba and wnba but they have had a much higher rate of major injuries in last decade or so in rookies and sophomores that’s directly related to AAU participation.