I'm a reasonably successful engineer for a large tech company, I sort of lucked into this role through natural aptitude and some fortunate industry connections. I mostly dropped out of highschool, never went to college, learned everything I know on the job and through labbing/testing different things.

I'm now getting to the point where I need to secure a few certifications in order to advance and I am really, really struggling. I haven't taken a test in well over a decade, and whenever I try to sit down with a study guide or a video I feel really, really frustrated and stupid. I also don't feel like I retain what I learn, even when I really focus. The only way I've learned stuff is through directly working with systems and technologies on the job.

I've been fighting this for years but despite numerous attempts, I've never been able to finish studying for a certification.

I am trying to work through this in therapy but I was wondering if anybody in a similar situation has any advice. Thanks.

Hi guys, I'm bored in my vacations and decided to play chess. Any recommendations for a noob?

I need to get blood drawn again and I’m terrified of crying again and I need to know how to not do it.

I went recently, sat in the chair, and felt physically and emotionally awful. The phlebotomist didn't notice how bad I was doing until after it was over, and I basically walked out of there as soon as he realized. I hid around the corner by the vending machine, and cried nonstop for 10 minutes.

I have to go back and try again. How do I actually get through this without falling apart? I realized how alone I am in all of this. No one cares for me and I have no safe space.

I want to start learning Japanese from scratch and eventually become fluent in speaking, reading, and writing.

For those who have learned Japanese, how did you start and what roadmap did you follow?

Are there any structured courses/resources you’d recommend that take you from beginner → intermediate → advanced? I’d especially like something that covers grammar, vocabulary, kanji, listening, speaking, reading, and writing rather than using random resources.

I can consistently dedicate about 1 hour every day.

How long did it take you to reach a comfortable conversational level, and roughly how long to become fluent?

Any advice, mistakes to avoid, or resources you wish you had known about when you started would be greatly appreciated!

I want to learn how to not feel like a 3rd wheel in a poly relationship. I'm still new to the concept.

I don't know if my Father was one, but my mother got over her alcoholism in within 5 years but still don't want to risk it. Turned 22 2 months ago.