The Five Scariest Words
Yes, I Can and I Will: These can be the five scariest words in the English language because once said they define your commitment. For example, “I will do the book report for extra credit,” or “I can commit to coming to soccer practice every day,” or “Yes, I will help you on Saturday’s project.”
They are the “I’ll Make It Happen” words. These five words say you are willing to take responsibility and be held accountable for the successful completion of a task. For example, when you say ”Yes, I’ll have my History report done by Friday” you have stepped forward and made a commitment.
Commitments can be scary to many people, but they don’t have to be. At first, make commitments to accomplish tasks that you are confident you will succeed in. Then build on those successes with commitments that stretch your capabilities. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. The skills you learn from your accomplishments will help you throughout your life.
Suggestions for implementation:
- Count the number of times in a week that you use the “I’ll Make It Happen” words yes, I can and I will.
- Have fun seeing who in the family can use these five words the most during a week.
- Once a family member has made a commitment to do something by using the yes, I can or I will words, help him or her to be successful with the project.
- Reinforce the importance of these words to your children.
Questions for discussion:
- What does Helen Keller’s quote “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows” mean to you?
- Can you think of words that might hold you back from reaching your full potential? Some examples include can’t and if.
Please visit goalsettingforstudents.com for more life skills ideas to help children succeed.
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Accent On Success® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving parents and teachers the tools they need to help children succeed in school and in life. Their first book, Goal Setting for Students®, has won three national book awards.
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