When I break things down, overwhelming things become manageable and less scary to me.
Michael Jordan earned an average of 31.5 points per game. When asked how he did it, he said only focused on getting 8 points per quarter. He said he figured he could get 8 points every quarter in some way.
Also, I think biographies and history help kids understand the value of failure. History prof Lucas Morel put a list of Abe Lincoln's failures by year. With each failure, he added a corresponding success for the same year. You can see how each failure opened a door for a particular success.
As a teacher and mom, I think consistent, steady pursuit of a single goal helps kids see how failure and success is a part of any big effort. For a kid struggling with multiplication tables, daily practice and eventual, steady progress will help that child see how half the battle is won if you just show up.
"You know, it's times like these when I realize what a superhero I am." Tony Stark/Iron Man
“Focus on what you can do, then do it with all your heart.” Lois Wilson
