Decisions That Stick

Hello everyone! Welcome to the second edition of "Decisions that Stick," where we're about helping SCOH students make awesome choices that lead to a happier, healthier you. This month, we're kicking things off with something important, but often overlooked: decision making.

Making good decisions is a skill that gets better with practice. The choices you make, both big and small, determine your path in life. It's about being able to think through a situation, consider your options, and make a choice you won't regret.

When you make good decision you feel good about yourself. I'm going to be honest, decision making isn't easy and good decision making can be tough. There are pros and cons when it comes to making decisions.

• You gain confidence and self-motivation.
• You are more likely to achieve your goals.
• It builds peace of mind for you and those who care about you.
• It can improve relationships and help you navigate difficult situations.
• You learn how to handle your emotions and avoid destructive behavior.

• It takes practice, and you will make mistakes.
• It can be difficult, as you may have to say "no" to things or people.
• It requires you to manage your emotions, which can be challenging.

Children equipped with decision-making and problem solving skills are more likely to make confident, healthy decisions. The ability to consider the positive and negative consequences of decisions reduces the likelihood of impulsive behavior promoting actions consistent with short-term and long-term goals.

S - Stop. Don't just rush into a decision.

T - Think, take your time and consider the pros and cons. What outcome do you want to see.

A - Act, once you've picked an outcome. Take action to make it happen.

R - Reflect, after you've taken action. Look back and learn from the outcome.

Next issue, we'll dive into time management. Until then, keep those decisions positive!

If you are trying to do the right thing and make solid decisions. Of course, your going to struggle and maybe even fail at times. Don't give up and feel like your starting over. You've actually learned valuable lessons that you will use during your next attempt. That next attempt is simply you beginning again. When you begin again you don't lose all that work and effort that you made before. You actually learn from it. Like a video game, you find that tough spot then figure it out by using all the past lessons you learned to help you overcome. Whether it's better grades, quitting Nicotine, getting to class on time or passing that learner's permit test. Don't ever stop, just begin again and take advantage of those lessons that you learned along the way.

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