Overview
Consider a child who wants to win a game. Instead of stressing about winning or losing, they should focus on enjoying the game and doing their best, which is something they can control.
The Choice
Clara must choose between staying true to her project or altering it for a chance to win.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.932282051282055
- Word Count
- 325 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Clara and Chen are preparing for the school science fair, each with a different project. Clara has been working hard on her solar-powered car model, while Chen has developed a water filtration system. As the fair approaches, Clara overhears some students saying that Chen's project is likely to win first place. Feeling the pressure to succeed, Clara considers making last-minute changes to her project to make it more impressive, even if it means staying up all night and possibly compromising the integrity of her work. Clara now faces a choice: (A) stick to her original plan and focus on doing her best, or (B) change her project in hopes of winning.
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
Stick to her original project
Change her project to win
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 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.
