In a system where marks feel like the ultimate benchmark, it is natural for parents to hope their child stands out. However, sometimes expectations take the shape of pressure in a child's mind, and the secret to success is not pressure but perspective.
A similar sentiment was observed when CBSE Class 10 topper Ayusman Mohapatra's father reacted to his son's perfect 500 out of 500 score. While the result grabbed attention, it was the father's response that truly stood out.
Let's Talk Parenting: What Has It Taught You So Far?
Hailing from Odisha, Ayusman Mohapatra excelled in the Class 10 CBSE boards. He lives with his parents and grandparents. His father is a senior manager at Postal Bank, and his mother is a homemaker. According to Ayusman, he started his preparation well in advance and completed his syllabus by October-November. He also credits his family for providing an environment where he could stay focused and disciplined.
Ayusman's Father Told Him: 'Even If You Score 33%, It's Okay'
Sharing how his family supported him, while speaking to Dainik Bhaskar, Ayusman Mohapatra revealed that his father said, 'Even if you score 33%, it's okay.' His father's words may sound simple on the surface, but for children in a competitive setup, such words carry a deep reassuring message.
Why Ayusman's Father's Words Matter
With his words, Ayusman's father gave his son the most powerful support a parent can offer. By normalizing even the minimum outcome, his father created a space where fear had no role to play. This one phrase prioritized the child over any achievement. The 'it's okay' made Ayusman feel so valued that even amidst overwhelming praise, he could remember this one sentence. When children feel secure and accepted regardless of outcomes, their mindset changes. They become more willing to put in effort, take responsibility, and stay consistent. In Ayusman's case, the story was similar. He prepared for his exams with genuine motivation. Most importantly, the boy did not lose himself while preparing for the boards; in fact, Ayusman revealed that he does not limit himself to studies. He still loves to learn art, plays musical instruments, and participates in sports activities. For Ayusman, scoring big was not about meeting his parents' expectations, but about giving his best when he wanted to.
Why Parental Pressure Can Actually Be Detrimental
While expectations often come from a place of care, excessive pressure from parents can do more harm than good. Over time, such pressure can affect a child's mental and emotional well-being. Another overlooked impact of pressure is how it shapes a child's relationship with failure. When mistakes are not seen as acceptable, children may become overly anxious or start avoiding challenges altogether. Additionally, constant pressure can lead to burnout. Long study hours driven by fear rather than interest can exhaust a child mentally and emotionally.
The ultimate lesson for parents is that years later, their child will consider the marksheet as a mere document, but the feeling of being supported by parents will stay with them. In the end, while marks may open doors, it is a parent's words that build the confidence to walk through them.
About the Author: The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you are seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.
