"نحن نعيش في عالم تُكافأ فيه الرداءة في كثير من الأحيان"

The core idea here is that in today’s society, people who are just average or 'good enough' often receive praise and rewards, sometimes overshadowing those who truly excel. It points to a broader issue where the bar for success seems to have been lowered, leading to a culture that doesn't always celebrate excellence as it should.

Historically, this might stem from the way modern institutions like schools, employers, or even social media platforms operate. Think about the education system. There's a trend where everyone gets a trophy just for participating, diminishing the drive to strive for greatness. Or consider the workplace—how often have you seen someone promoted simply because they've been around a while, not necessarily because they’re the best at what they do?

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a corporate office where two employees, Alex and Jamie, work side by side. Alex is the go-getter, always delivering top-tier work, staying late to perfect projects, and constantly seeking new ways to add value. Jamie, on the other hand, does the bare minimum. They come in, do their job, and leave as soon as the clock hits five. When yearly reviews roll around, both get similar raises and accolades. Why? Because Jamie never makes mistakes, and Alex’s hard work, while excellent, is just seen as doing their job well. This could lead to frustration for Alex and might even demotivate them over time. Why push hard if mediocrity is enough?

So, what can you do with this wisdom? First, recognize the environments where mediocrity is rewarded—then decide if you want to be part of them. If you’re in a job where your efforts aren’t recognized, maybe it's time to chat with your boss about how your work is evaluated. Or, consider looking for a new role where excellence is genuinely celebrated. On a personal level, strive to set high standards for yourself regardless of external rewards. Excellence is a habit, and cultivating it can lead to self-satisfaction and long-term success.

Imagine you’re a student who loves science. In class, you notice that even those who barely study can get decent grades because the tests are easy. It’s tempting to slack off too. But think bigger. By pushing yourself to understand the material deeply, not just for the test but out of curiosity and passion, you’re building a foundation that will set you apart in college and your future career. Sure, the immediate rewards might be the same, but the long-term payoff of truly mastering a subject is invaluable.

So, next time you feel the pull to just coast along with the rest, think about what you want in the long run. Do you want to be just another face in the crowd, or do you want to be the person who stands out for genuine talent and hard work? It’s not about the medals or the praise—it’s about knowing you’ve given your best and risen above the average.