When Being Extraordinary Stops Feeling Like a Gift

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when extraordinary starts to feel like constant pressure — when potential becomes performance, and brilliance turns into burden?In this episode of Think Differently, Dr. Theresa Haskins explores the world behind the “gifted” label — and how well-intentioned excitement can quietly reduce exceptional people to their output. Through personal stories, research, and reflection, she reveals how gifted and twice-exceptional individuals often carry the quiet weight of expectations: praised for their potential but rarely supported as full human beings.Dr. Haskins challenges both the systems and the people who measure progress only by achievement. She shares what gifted learners and leaders actually need instead: curiosity, rest, and belonging.Because being extraordinary shouldn’t mean being valued only when you’re winning. Everyone deserves to be appreciated for who they are — and sometimes, the most powerful growth happens under the current, where no one’s watching.