I am a mother of two grown sons; one is fairly issue free , and the youngest is a recovering drug addict with lots of issues. I don't love one more than the other. I don't compare them (except like this, for the sake of discussion). All I ever wanted for either of them is that they be the happiest, most productive person they could be. I don't care if either of them have multiple degrees, titles, fancy homes or fat bank accounts. I could not care less. I want them to be happy and I suspect your folks feel the exact same way. There are negative issues with over achievers, too, I might add...