Anything worth achieving is worth overachieving.
You try to give away what you want yourself.
The rule for finding plots for character-centered novels, which is to ask: 'So what's the worst possible thing I can do to *this* guy?' And then do it.
Utterly bleak and black is not the sum of realism. All the other colors are real, too.
Suicidal glory is the luxury of the irresponsible.
You have to be careful who you let define your good.