Introduction to Self-Control and Alertness

By Adam Taylor
Part of Self-Control and Alertness
About this activity
Author: Adam Taylor
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At the start of this session, we will delve into the concepts of self-control and alertness, emphasizing their importance in achieving success. Self-control involves the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in order to pursue long-term goals. Alertness, on the other hand, refers to being fully present and aware in the current moment, enabling quick and effective responses to situations.

Understanding and honing these traits are essential for personal growth and achievement. By developing self-control, individuals can resist impulsive actions and stay focused on their objectives. Being alert allows individuals to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Introduction to Self-Control and Alertness

Self-control and alertness are important qualities that contribute to personal success. In John Wooden's Pyramid of Success, these traits are emphasized as crucial for achieving one's goals and overcoming obstacles. Self-control involves the ability to manage impulses and emotions, while alertness involves being aware of one's surroundings and making quick, well-informed decisions.

Worksheet

  1. Identify a situation where you demonstrated self-control. Describe what happened and how you managed to control your impulses or emotions.
  2. Think of a time when being alert helped you avoid a potential problem. Explain the situation and how your alertness benefited you.
  3. Example: You are studying for an important test, but your friends invite you to go out. How can you use self-control to stay focused on your studies?
  4. Example: You are at a sports event, and you notice a player on the opposing team making a strategic move. How can your alertness help your team respond effectively?
  5. Challenge: You are working on a group project, and one team member is not contributing. How can you use self-control to address the situation without escalating conflicts?
  6. Challenge: While driving, you encounter a sudden road closure. How can your alertness help you navigate through alternate routes and reach your destination efficiently?
  7. Real-World Problem: You are in a crowded mall when you realize you have lost your wallet. How can your self-control help you remain calm and focused on retracing your steps to find it?
  8. Real-World Problem: You are in a meeting at work, and a colleague presents an idea that you strongly disagree with. How can your alertness help you communicate your perspective respectfully and constructively?

Answers:

Answers will vary depending on personal experiences and perspectives.

Introduction to Self-Control and Alertness

  1. Problem: You have a big exam coming up next week but you feel tempted to procrastinate and watch TV instead of studying. How can you practice self-control in this situation?

    2. Answer: Recognize the importance of studying for your exam and set a schedule with designated study times to avoid distractions.

  2. Problem: You are in a heated argument with a friend. How can you exhibit self-control in your response?

    3. Answer: Take deep breaths and think before responding impulsively. Consider the impact of your words on your friendship.

  3. Problem: You are at a party and offered a drink, but you are the designated driver for your friends. How can you practice self-control in this situation?

    4. Answer: Politely decline the drink and explain your role as the designated driver to ensure the safety of your friends.

  4. Problem: You are feeling very sleepy during a lecture. How can you improve your alertness and focus?

    5. Answer: Stand up and stretch, splash some cold water on your face, or engage in active listening techniques to stay alert.

  5. Problem: You have a project deadline approaching but you keep getting distracted by social media notifications. How can you improve your self-control in this scenario?

    6. Answer: Turn off notifications or use apps that limit your access to social media during work hours to stay focused on your task.

  6. Problem: You are driving and notice a pedestrian crossing the street unexpectedly. How can you demonstrate alertness and quick decision-making in this situation?

    7. Answer: Stay vigilant while driving, anticipate potential hazards, and be prepared to react quickly to ensure the safety of the pedestrian.

  7. Problem: You are in a team meeting and feel yourself zoning out. How can you maintain alertness and actively participate in the discussion?

    8. Answer: Take notes to stay engaged, ask questions to clarify information, and offer input to contribute to the conversation.

  8. Problem: You are struggling to control your temper during a disagreement with a family member. How can you practice self-control in this emotional situation?

    9. Answer: Take a moment to calm down, express your feelings calmly and respectfully, and listen actively to understand the other person's perspective.

  9. Problem: You have a habit of oversleeping and being late for appointments. How can you improve your self-control and punctuality?

    10. Answer: Set multiple alarms, establish a bedtime routine to ensure sufficient rest, and create incentives for waking up early to break the habit of oversleeping.

  10. Problem: You are feeling overwhelmed with a long to-do list. How can you prioritize tasks and maintain your alertness to stay productive?

    11. Answer: Create a daily schedule, categorize tasks based on urgency and importance, and take short breaks to recharge and refocus throughout the day.

  1. Start by explaining the importance of self-control and alertness in achieving success according to John Wooden's Pyramid of Success.
  2. Discuss the characteristics and qualities associated with self-control and alertness.
  3. Engage students in a discussion about real-life examples where self-control and alertness played a crucial role in achieving success.
  4. Introduce practical strategies and techniques to enhance self-control, such as deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices.
  5. Encourage students to identify their personal triggers that may challenge their self-control and alertness.
  6. Provide scenarios or role-playing activities for students to practice utilizing self-control and alertness in different situations.
  7. Reflect on the outcomes of the activities and discuss how self-control and alertness can be applied in various aspects of life.
  • Game 1: Self-Control Charades
    Rules:
    Divide the class into two teams. One student from each team will come to the front and act out a scenario where self-control is needed (e.g., resisting the urge to eat a tempting treat, controlling anger in a frustrating situation). The team members must guess the scenario being acted out within a time limit. Points are awarded for correct guesses.
  • Game 2: Alertness Memory Challenge
    Rules:
    Create a set of cards with pictures or words related to being alert and attentive. Place the cards face down on a table. Students take turns flipping over two cards at a time to try and find matching pairs. If a player successfully matches a pair, they get to keep the cards and take another turn. The player with the most pairs at the end wins.
  • Game 3: Self-Control Freeze Dance
    Rules:
    Play upbeat music and have students dance around the room. At random intervals, pause the music and shout out a scenario where self-control is needed (e.g., staying quiet in a library, waiting patiently in line). When the music stops, students must freeze in place and act out the scenario given. Those who do not freeze or act out the scenario correctly are out of the game. The last student standing wins.
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