Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself. – George Bernard Shaw

Too often, we paint a confusing picture for young people. Too often, we make it sound like passion and innovation alone will lead to future success and happiness. Too often, we promote creativity and permit voice and choice as the foundation for education. Why is this a faulty proposition? It’s only half the equation . . . it is missing a key component.

Life isn’t only about discovering your passion . . . it is about the work it takes to live your passion at an elite level. Once you discover your passion – and for many the journey is as important as the destination – you must work to cultivate the required skills into future success.

Finding yourself is only the starting line . . . creating yourself is the journey to success. Students today need to develop the foundational skills, instill a work ethic grounded in pride in one’s self and hard work, and perpetuate a desire for lifelong learning and growth.