Breakdown:

1. Struggle is Essential for Character Development
   The foundation of this idea is that struggles build character. By trying to shield children from difficulties, parents inadvertently deprive them of the experiences that develop resilience, problem-solving, and self-reliance. Struggle is necessary for growth and the development of strong character.
2. The Difference Between Hungry and Comfortable Kids
   There’s a clear distinction between two types of kids: those who are hungry and those who are comfortable. The “hungry” kid is driven, resourceful, and willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals. This child will make do with whatever is available, finding creative ways to solve problems. On the other hand, the “comfortable” kid lacks the drive to seek out challenges or create opportunities because they have everything handed to them.
3. The Drive of the Hungry Kid
   A hungry kid will go the extra mile to succeed, whether it’s making a simple meal or hustling to practice or train. They don’t wait for opportunities to come to them; they actively pursue them, showing a hunger for success that sets them apart. This internal motivation is what helps them excel.
4. The Passive Comfort of the Child Who Wants
   In contrast, the child who is merely comfortable may do what’s required, but only when prompted by others. They lack initiative, waiting for someone to cook for them or push them to practice. While they may go through the motions, their lack of drive limits their potential. They “want” things, but they aren’t willing to struggle to achieve them.
5. Division One Mindset: Want vs. Hunger
   At the highest levels, such as Division One athletics, teams are looking for hungry individuals, not just kids who “want” to succeed. Hunger fuels passion, resilience, and grit, while mere desire without the willingness to struggle leads to mediocrity. Parents and coaches must foster this hunger in children to prepare them for success.
6. Raising Wolves vs. Raising Sheep
   Parents are tasked with raising either wolves or sheep. Wolves are independent, resourceful, and able to fend for themselves. They find ways to survive and thrive, even when things get tough. Sheep, on the other hand, constantly need protection and guidance. They are dependent on others for survival, lacking the ability to navigate challenges on their own.
7. The Consequences of Over-Protection
   Overprotective parents who shield their children from struggle are essentially raising sheep. These children will always need someone to protect and guide them because they haven’t developed the skills to handle life’s challenges on their own. This dependence can limit their growth and make them vulnerable in the real world.
8. The Resourcefulness of Wolves
   Wolves, in contrast, thrive on challenge. They learn how to navigate the world independently, finding their own paths to success. This resourcefulness allows them to tackle difficult situations head-on, without relying on constant supervision or guidance. Wolves learn from their struggles, becoming stronger and more capable over time.
9. Parents Must Let Their Children Struggle
   To raise wolves, parents must allow their children to struggle. It’s in these moments of difficulty that kids develop the skills, resilience, and character needed for success. Shielding them from every hardship only stunts their growth and creates dependency.
10. Struggle Builds Resilience and Self-Reliance
    Ultimately, struggle is what turns children into strong, self-reliant adults. Parents who try to remove every obstacle from their child’s path are doing them a disservice. The real gift is teaching kids how to handle difficulties, fostering a mindset of independence and hunger for success.

In summary, struggle is an essential part of building character. By allowing children to face challenges, parents raise resilient, independent individuals—wolves, who have the hunger and resourcefulness to thrive in life, not like sheep.