186: Stop Telling Kids They’re Amazing (When They’re Not) - The Problem With Praise and How We're Getting It Wrong

Rosie opens up about her self-doubt at work and how a few words of praise completely changed her day. It sparks a bigger chat with Roula about the way we praise kids (and adults), why we often do it wrong, and what real encouragement actually looks like. From “well done” overloads to handing out medals just for showing up, this one’s all about building genuine confidence instead of false reassurance.Roula questions whether constant positivity does more harm than good, while Rosie admits she’s still learning to handle failure herself. Together, they explore how to teach kids (and ourselves) to sit with discomfort, accept losing, and grow from it—without sugarcoating reality.What’s the right balance between encouragement and honesty?Topics Covered:The difference between genuine and empty praiseHow overpraising affects kids’ motivation and self-worthThe participation trophy problem in schoolsTeaching resilience and handling disappointmentWhy sitting in discomfort can build emotional strength--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast