Scene to read · Motivation, Empathy
She'll thank us later
You are an assistant coach at a competitive swim club.
After a 5:30 a.m. practice, 15-year-old Anjali, one of the club's fastest swimmers, tells you on the pool deck that she wants to quit. Her father, who drives her to every practice, walks over.
The scene
Anjali: I used to love it. Now I dread every single morning.
Father: She's the fastest in her age group. She can't quit now. She'll thank us later.
Father: (to you) Tell her. She listens to you.
The two questions
- 1What would you do?
- 2What is the difference between motivation that comes from within and motivation that comes from other people? Which lasts longer?
What raters look for
- Motivation
- Shows genuine, sustained drive and a clear reason for choices, including when work is unglamorous.
- Empathy
- Recognizes what others feel and need, and lets that shape the response without losing judgment.
Answer scenarios like this on the real timers
Answer both questions on the clock, and get each one scored 1–9 the way raters score. Your first set is free, no card.
Practice free
