Huh, OK, I didn't know anybody followed my work! Note that I am not particularly intelligent- I always struggled in school, and had a ton of imposter syndrome. I tried and failed to become a successful scientist and instead pivoted to what I'm actually good at (scientific computing). Most of my drive came from fear of not being able to make enough money to live in the bay area, or from being thought unintelligent.

Never underestimate the power of imposter syndrome!