Society places far too much emphasis on people’s innate desire to be remembered by future generations. Young people are constantly prodded by their elders to realize at a young age what they will do to earn their place in history books. This teaches young people to selfishly do things for their own benefit; this also does nothing to instill moral values in young people.

Older generations defend their actions by reasoning that it motivates young people. Yet, inculcating in young people the habit of using historical recognition as an ultimate goal will assuredly do nothing to encourage the passion required to achieve great things.

In addition to this, the belief that all should strive for historical recognition causes many to lose sight of the fact that people should enjoy their lives and not bother burdening themselves with an even greater amount of pressure to "do something amazing". Many seem to strive for distinction while neglecting the fact that it will not instantly enhance their lives.

The pursuit of fame causes a detrimental amount of pressure by establishing an unrealistic goal that most will never achieve. Rather than incessantly encouraging young people to gain their places in the annals of history, one should instruct young people to follow their passions. By striving for fame and notoriety, a young person is more likely to carve out a dismal existence filled with utter failure and bitter disappointment. Fame is not the only way to happiness. Society must learn this.