The Endless Ladder

Once upon a time, there was a massive ladder that stretched so high into the sky that its top was hidden by the clouds.

The village elders told every child that climbing this ladder was the only path to happiness.

“Take one step at a time,” they said, “and eventually, you’ll reach the top, where all your dreams come true.”

The children grew up learning to climb. And to climb as quickly as possible.

Each rung represented a milestone:

• Get good grades
• Achieve a high SAT score
• Participate in the “right” extracurricular activities
• Get into the “right” school
• Secure the “right” jobs (for 40 years)
• Get promoted in those jobs
• Acquire better possessions (homes, cars, etc.)
• Collect more credentials. Collect more stuff.

And then, eventually, nirvana (aka retirement)… or something similar.

And that is when life gets really great.

But as they climbed, they noticed something strange—the ladder never ended. Those who reached great heights, no matter how quickly, were exhausted, always looking up, never down.

They were constantly reminded, “Just a little more, and you’ll get there.”

Instead of worrying about progressing too slowly or how high to climb, we should question whether climbing the ladder makes sense at all.

Young people especially shouldn’t have to hope for happiness and fulfillment at the top of the climb.

They can build, create, and enjoy a life of meaning and impact today, not tomorrow.

It’s time to let our children step off the endless ladder.

We believe this is possible.

It starts with an educational model that shifts perspectives— from looking upward to looking outward.

Where students engage with the world, becoming active creators rather than passive consumers.

Where they talk to real people to identify real problems.

Where they tap into their reservoirs of creativity and build solutions that serve those people.

Where impact and rewards are immediate, not after an endless climb.

This isn’t just a dream—it’s the foundation of The School of Entrepreneuring.

Are you a parent of a child entering 6th to 9th grade in fall 2026 or later? Join us as we build The School of Entrepreneuring as we empower the next generation to create, serve, and thrive.

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