I agree: Trying to create a new general-purpose OS is futile. You're handicapping yourself by attempting a feat which likely can't achieve anything beyond your own satisfaction, which will be limited by the aforementioned self-handicapping. It's like sublimating your musical drive in a knock-off, unoriginal rock band in the vague hope you'll someday become the next Nickleback. Go for the gusto and put the Research in Research OS. Make something to explore an idea mainstream OSes can't pursue because it would break too much compatibility. Be Captain Beefheart, or at least Tool.