Overview
If a friend is sad about losing a game, instead of feeling sad too, you can remind yourself that their feelings are based on how they view the game, and you can support them without getting upset yourself.
The Choice
Should Clara reassure Chen or express her own doubts?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.841666666666672
- Word Count
- 336 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Clara and Chen are working on a school project together. Chen is visibly upset because he feels their presentation isn't good enough and fears they'll get a bad grade. Clara notices his frustration and starts to feel anxious too. She knows their project is solid, but Chen's worry makes her doubt. Clara remembers that emotions often come from how we think about situations, not just the situations themselves. She considers whether to reassure Chen by focusing on the strengths of their work or to mirror his concerns to show empathy. Clara now faces a choice: (A) reassure Chen about their project or (B) express her own doubts to align with Chen's feelings.
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
Reassure Chen about their project
Express her own doubts to align with Chen
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 understanding emotions apply here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Clara 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.
