Just Enough Jack: What Our Son Is Teaching Us About Effort, Fear, and Knowing What’s Enough

Every parent has that one phrase that sticks, a nickname that started as a joke but turned into a lesson. For us, it’s “Just Enough Jack.”

Jackson’s our second child, our first son, and someone who knows how to give what the moment calls for. Sometimes that means working hard, leading well, and showing real commitment. Other times, it means doing what’s required, no more, no less. And that’s where things get interesting.

Because “enough” isn’t simple.

Sometimes enough is wisdom. Knowing when to stop, rest, and recharge.
And sometimes enough is fear. Holding back because pushing harder might mean failing, stretching, or being seen.

As parents, we’re learning that the line between the two isn’t always clear. What matters is how we show up in each situation. Not to judge, but to understand. Our role with Jackson, and really with all our kids, is to stay present, curious, supportive, and to know when to push. To recognize when“enough” is healthy, and when it’s holding them back.

Jackson is teaching us that growth doesn’t come from constant effort; it comes from honest reflection. He’s a hard worker, a loyal friend, and a natural leader when he believes in what he’s doing. He’s also deeply protective of his people, the kind of loyal that doesn’t need words to prove it.

And when he’s with those people, the ones who make him feel safe and known. he’s loud, funny, and full of life. That’s when Just Enough Jack becomes All In Jack.

We love both.

Because both are true. He’s figuring out what “enough” means for him. And we’re learning, right alongside him, how to guide without pushing too hard, how to trust his pace, and how to meet him where he is with respect.

What We’ve Learned Along the Way

✔️ “Enough” can mean many things. Sometimes it’s rest; sometimes it’s fear. The real work is learning to tell the difference.

✔️ Presence matters more than pressure. When we stay curious instead of critical, growth happens naturally.

✔️ Leadership can look quiet. Jackson leads by example, steady, calm, and consistent. People follow because they trust him.

✔️ Respect is mutual. He’s taught us that giving respect is how you earn it, especially with kids finding their independence.

✔️ Loyalty runs deep. Jackson will always protect his people. That kind of faithfulness is rare and worth recognizing.

✔️ Joy shows up when he feels safe. When he’s laughing and relaxed, we see his full heart, thoughtful, funny, grounded, and fully himself.

Why This Matters

Parenting adult kids isn’t about managing them. It’s about understanding them. “Just Enough Jack” reminds us that every person has their own rhythm, their own definition of effort, courage, and care.

Our job isn’t to decide what enough looks like. It’s to walk beside them as they figure it out. Sometimes that means cheering them on. Sometimes it means challenging them. Always, it means staying close enough to see who they’re becoming.

An Encouragement

If you have someone like Jackson in your life, steady, loyal, protective, and figuring it out in real time, meet them where they are. Ask questions. Listen well. And when they do show up, even if it’s “just enough,” know that it’s part of the process.

👉 Listen to Episode 16: The Thinker: Jackson on Risk, Reason, and Finding His Own Path

Because sometimes enough is right.
And sometimes enough is fear.
But both can lead to growth when love stays in the room.

—Justin & Sarah