The more we try to direct research, the more likely we are instead to slow progress, and the undiscovered realms where ideas that will truly change the course of science, of human understanding, and of human health, will remain in shadow.

Ideas and influences from unexpected directions are not only important but essential—for medicine, for science, and for all of us, in finding and following our trajectories through the world.

Karl Deisseroth, Projections

If you show up at a high jump championship with a vaulting pole, you’ll be immediately disqualified.

But while the judges might object, they probably won’t stop you, especially if you wave the pole around threateningly as you approach.

Your record won’t go on the books, but that’s ok—you’ll know in your heart how high you jumped.

Randall Munroe, How To

The Plans:

The Plan You Tell Your Advisor: “I’m going to be a professor at a major research university.”

The Real Plan: Look for career alternatives.

The Secret Plan: Become a baker/rock-star/writer.

Jorge Cham, Piled Higher And Deeper