Overview
A child wants to be the best player on their sports team but worries about losing. Instead of fixating on winning, they can focus on practicing and improving their skills, which is something they can control, leading to a more enjoyable experience.
The Choice
Should Anders focus on winning or on personal improvement?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.87911031518625
- Word Count
- 349 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anders has always wanted to be the best player on his school's soccer team. He's been practicing hard and feels confident. However, there's a big game coming up, and Anders is worried about losing. His friend Eun-Kyung notices his anxiety and suggests that instead of focusing on winning, Anders should concentrate on improving his skills and enjoying the game. She reminds him that he can't control the outcome, but he can control how he plays. As the game day approaches, Anders feels the pressure from his teammates who expect him to lead them to victory. Anders now faces a choice: (A) focus on winning the game and meeting his teammates' expectations, or (B) concentrate on his personal improvement and enjoyment of the game.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Focus on winning the game
Concentrate on personal improvement
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How does the principle of 'Desire and Aversion' apply here?
- 3
What are the potential consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anders here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
