EP.23 | Beyond the Labels | Does High Achievement = Happiness?

Welcome back to the big little things at HWIS. This episode is incredibly special—Host Iris sits down with her best friends, Ethan and Jessica, for their very last podcast as the graduating Class of 2026! With finals approaching and a new school year right around the corner, we know the anxiety is real. No matter what grade you're stepping into next, the academic pressure only levels up. Before we officially sign off, let your graduating seniors share some vital mindset shifts to help you conquer the next chapter and tackle a silent struggle we all face: the pressure to be exceptional. Does your GPA define your value? Let's talk about it. ✨ Episode Highlights: The Trap of Perfection: Straight-A student Ethan reveals why his biggest pressure doesn’t come from his parents, but from his own hidden perfectionism. Defying the Norm: Jessica drops truth bombs on choosing art over a "safe" career. Spoiler: Doing it despite the fear makes the best story! 🎨 Crashing & Growing: Why failure initially feels like the end of the world, but is actually an uncomfortable necessity for your growth. The Happiness Myth: Does being a high-achiever guarantee joy? We break down why chasing the next big win leads to burnout, and where true fulfillment actually lives. If you’ve ever felt crushed by expectations or struggled to find joy in your wins, this farewell episode is for you.