In an earlier blog, I wrote about some factors, such as self-esteem and varying definitions of excellence, that impact the pursuit of excellence.  Obviously that is not a conclusive list.  This week during my interactions with my four-year old, I was reminded that the attitude of apathy has a huge impact on the pursuit of excellence.  Here's how it happened:  At preschool the teacher told me that my son got a smiley face on his report despite being reminded several times of his behavior during a special presentation.  After discussing the issue with him, I decided that I would restrict his Wii priviledge for the day as a consequence to which he responded "I don't care".  Wow, where did that come from?  I know he cares about playing the Wii and I know that he cares about being a good boy, so why, all of a sudden, is he acting like he doesn't care?  (I was really hoping that apathy wouldn't set in until at least middle school.)  Somehow I have to teach him to care about his behavior and the consequences that his behavior will cause.  The same is true in schools and in the workplace.  We must teach people within our realm of influence to care about their behavior and the consequences that behavior will produce.  I think the best way to do that is through the example of our own lives and attitudes.  As our children see us treat aspects of lives with respect and concern, they will learn to care.  As our students see us give quality time and effort to our classrooms, they will learn to care.  As our employees see us make sacrifices and accomodations for individuals, they will learn to care.  I believe that apathy may be the biggest defeating factor in the pursuit of excellence.