David Yeager in the Wall Street Journal (Apple News link):

Alex was trapped by what’s known as the mentor’s dilemma: the fact that constructive criticism, which we hope will push young people to do better, can crush their confidence and sap their motivation. Leaders end up feeling like they are stuck between two bad choices: put up with poor performance (but be nice) or demand better (and be cruel). Both mentors and mentees often leave these interactions frustrated or offended.

I have never felt more seen.

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