There is much imbalance in the attitude of children and youths as regards their approach to work, to make meaningful contributions, to make progressive efforts, and to excel in what they do. Excellence does not mean perfection. Perfection is not attainable, but one can attain excellence while chasing perfection. Excellence simply means the ability to rise above crowds and seek higher standards of achievement.
Every child is gifted and, within his or her capability, must be trained to be committed to doing a good job and making significant efforts towards achieving good results. Excellence is therefore measured through efforts not result. Children who are self-directed, driven, enthusiastic, and goal setters find it easy to attain excellence if they set targets and monitor them with the right attitude.
Sadly, children and youths nowadays trail more on the path of mediocrity. Extra effort and commitment have been downplayed. They settle for just getting by and are comfortable there. They are not faithful in the little under their care and so can not handle an extra. They accept the status quo (average or below average) with ease. They are easily discouraged. They have poor work habits. They are mentally and physically lazy. They are used to sliding along with an attitude of ‘anything goes’. Thus, most of them depend on their parents, government, and society for survival. Many graduates are under achievers for this reason, and they play the blame game to feel good.
Studies have revealed that amongst youth, peer pressure, low expectations, poor support from parents and schools, lack of motivation from the society, and ineffective reward system are the major factors that contend with excellence. The most conspicuous factor is peer pressure and societal influence.
Our entire culture promotes mediocrity above excellence. They criticize rather than encourage. They condemn more than they reward. The prevailing attitude is cutting corners, and the slogan is ‘the end justifies the means’. There is more interest on what is achieved than how it is achieved, and there is immense pressure to achieve by all means. Again, society applauds indecency and immorality more than civility and etiquette, which affects quality efforts and achievements. The world is full of demoralizing situations that challenge excellent spirits and intentions, and children/youths are more influenced and affected by them.
Striving towards excellence needs to start from home, then the school and the society. Excellence at these levels doesn’t mean making no mistakes or having all A’s in grades. It means having an excellent attitude towards learning, towards relationships, making progressive contributions and efforts, producing quality works, setting high standards, and taking pride in any achievements. It means being trustworthy, diligent, and committed to good work.
Luke 16:10 reminds us that he who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much, and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. This biblical model is enough compass to navigate through excellence and prevent poor attitude and mediocre performance.
However, children should not be pushed too hard towards excellence to avoid driving them off the cliff. Balance must be maintained. They should be urged to shoot their best shot, steer towards value and achievement, be patient and committed towards making extra efforts through setting goals and monitoring the progress.
BIBLE VERSE
2 Corinthians 8:7
But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also
PROVERB
If while climbing a tree, you insist on going beyond the top, the earth will be waiting for you ~ African Proverb
RIDDLE
A great man once said, “a life changing 7 letter word should always come after a 6 letter word.” The 7 letter word is excellence. What’s the word before it
Amara Ann Unachukwu
