The broader issue with Simone Biles: we live in a culture that has defined “success” wrong.
Throughout childhood, success is always framed as what others think about you. Grades, college application, and in sport as well. The goal is always the same: perform for someone else’s judgement. Become who others want you to be.
This, I argue, is the root problem. Every young person should be taught how to shine with minimal external validation. No judges. No grades. No rankings. No standardized tests. Seems fanciful? Consider the costs (I'll post more on the costs in a follow-up post).
Imagine a world where kids learn because they are curious instead of chasing a grade. Athletes perform because of their love for the sport. Motivations are intrinsic.
Endorsements and grades are accidental "symptoms" of a passionate learner. Any external validation comes from the simple knowledge that they are a dearly loved child of God.
Mental health is threatened when we live to please others. We know this. Refuse the world's definition of "success" and train your kids to be their authentic-selves at all times… and if external praise comes, let it be accidental.
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