High ambition kids define their self worth on what summer programs they get into.
Kids who haven’t been encouraged to dream as big don’t have summer plans. They just hope to get a non-fast-food job.
Neither response is ideal. The balance is ideal. But why is it so hard to find?
I think because it requires constant adjustment. To tip the scales to either side is easy. Just put more weight on that end and keep it there. To balance the scale is hard, it takes focus and precision that could be thrown off at any moment.
Look for equilibrium and pursue healthy balance. It’s not easy to find, but it’s there.