The Horse and the Cart
We have all heard the expression “putting the cart before the horse,” which suggests something done contrary to the natural or effective sequence of events. In our education system, and our society broadly speaking, we are commonly putting the cart before the horse when it comes to guiding children. The cart in this case is a student’s accomplishments: resume, courses, grades, extracurriculars, and achievements. The horse, of course, is the student.
We are asking horses that aren’t strong, healthy, or happy to pull heavier and heavier carts- this does not lead to good outcomes. We are making carts too heavy for horses to pull and, in turn, they are giving up.
We at Chestnut State Education Consulting, a small education company based out of Chicago’s North Shore, address the horse first, in order to develop them as comprehensively as possible so they are strong, fast, and vibrant. Only then, do we believe, can one properly address their cart and how much to load it up.
So, how does one build a student up? We think it’s a matter of psychological health first and foremost. Far too many students have issues that they are dealing with, whether it be confidence, self-image, self-esteem, stress, anxiety, or simply feeling overwhelmed. These are critical issues that must be navigated and addressed properly. Our assertion is clear— whether a student is struggling academically or is a high- performer, the approach remains the same: address the student as an individual first.
What our society does is focus on the academics and extracurriculars— on performance. We tend to believe that if only the student would just achieve, they would then feel fulfillment and purpose. But it does not work that way.
As mental health is on the forefront of many people’s minds, this is the right time to guide students and give them the balance they’ll take with them not only through high school, but into adulthood. The tools we give students, academically speaking, are crucial to their future without question. But the psychological guidance and tools we give them are just as important.
We have made this our mission. Work with students one-on-one through coaching, addressing them as people first, then from that paradigm, create a learning framework for the student to develop academically and they can achieve whatever it is they wish.
As long-time educators, we have worked with many gifted students over the years— students with stellar resumes, impressive extracurriculars, and admission to the nation’s top universities. It is often these students that need coaching the most. Everyone can point the finger easily at the student who is visibly struggling, but it is often the highest performers that have the most underlying stress and anxiety. They often continually live on the breaking point. It isn’t healthy.
Every student needs guidance, regardless of their ability, personality, or motivation. With the increasing challenges of society, academic pressure, social media toxicity, competitiveness of college admissions, and the failings of our education system, students are under more pressure than ever before. They are well-informed about our world and unfortunately many are becoming disheartened too early in life. It is difficult to watch. Pairing coaching and learning together allows for a more comprehensive and genuine impact. Students are not only better prepared for their future, but are much more at one with themselves.
Without healthy horses, the carts rarely reach their destination.
