A full-time hacker with 8 years of experience shares their journey, highlighting the importance of staying curious, setting work-life balance, and investing time in oneself to overcome challenges. Hx01 emphasizes the value of trusted programs, reporting only to them, and sharing information on a need-to-know basis. They also stress the need for mental health awareness and trust one's gut instincts when avoiding burnout. With no clear direction but a willingness to explore new technologies, Hx01 offers advice to new hackers and transitioners, advocating for developing their own methodology and prioritizing financial stability.