High expectations weren’t nurtured in my neck of nowhere back then – children weren’t fawned over from an early age as ‘gifted’ and groomed for a prizewinning future self-esteem was considered something you had to pick from the garden yourself.

Plautus

The Quote in Other Words

In my hometown, there was no emphasis on having high expectations for children. They were not constantly praised and prepared for a successful future from a young age. Instead, building self-esteem was seen as a personal responsibility, like picking flowers from a garden.

Explanation of the Quote

This quote speaks to the idea that in certain environments, high expectations and a focus on achievement are not necessarily encouraged or prioritized. Instead, individuals are expected to develop their own sense of self-worth and confidence through personal effort and resilience. This can be seen as a positive trait, as it fosters independence and self-reliance, but it can also be challenging for those who may not have access to the same resources or opportunities as others.

In some ways, this quote highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and abilities of each individual, rather than simply focusing on external markers of success. It suggests that self-esteem and confidence are not necessarily things that can be given or taught, but rather must be cultivated through personal experience and effort. Ultimately, this quote encourages us to embrace our own potential and to strive for excellence, even in the face of adversity or limited resources.