It’s a question that often lingers in the minds of students, leaving them anxious and uncertain as they navigate the challenges of the educational journey. In a world filled with rapid changes and unknowns, helping students conquer their fear of the future is paramount.
We’re excited to introduce our ‘Conquering Fear of the Future SEL‘ activity, a powerful tool designed to boost students’ confidence and resilience. This transformative exercise encourages students to reflect on their past successes, arming them with the self-assurance needed to face the uncertainties of the future with unwavering determination.
The Goal
The goal of this exercise is to build students’ confidence about the future by remembering their past successes.
RAMP (ASCA) Mindset & Behaviors addressed and developed:
Academic: Results Orientation; Taking Challenges.
Career: Positive Attitude; Take Responsibility.
Social/Emotional: Self Control / Self Discipline; Perseverance; Social Maturity; Self Confidence; Empathy.
Materials
- Circle of chairs
- Indigo Report
Step 1:
Ask students to think of something they are nervous about. (These fears do not need to be shared out loud.)
Step 2:
Pair students up and have them both share a victory from their past. They can share with the group if they are willing.
Step 3:
Encourage students to think about this past success throughout the week when facing challenges that make them scared or nervous. Look at the Motivators section of the Indigo Report for clues of how you could inspire or drive students to tackle certain challenges they fear.
Example: A student is nervous for an upcoming test, but remember a past test that they studied for and passed. As they prepare for the next test, they will use the memory of the last test as motivation.