Ever try to ride a unicycle? Many people call it “terror on a stick,” and I agree. But it is also a great teacher of some valuable life lessons.
I chose a unicycle to teach my grandchildren some valuable lessons. At sixty years old many of my friends thought I was out of my mind. In truth, I thought they might be right, particularly after my first fall. Older people do not heal as quickly as they did when they were twenty, and I’m certainly no exception.
But it was important to teach my grandchildren that they can do anything they want to if they are determined and willing to put in the extra effort. Riding a unicycle is not easy at any age, but at sixty it was a real eye-opener.
What I learn about life on a unicycle:
- Some of life’s lessons are painful, but keep trying.
- Determination helps you overcome your fears.
- You won’t go very far without balance in your life.
- Breathe naturally, even when you are afraid.
- Practice, practice, practice.
- Don’t be concerned about what others are saying.
- On a unicycle you will stand out in a crowd.
- You’re as old as you think you are.
- If you believe you can go for it.
- You can do anything you make your mind up to do.
I’m not professing that everyone should start riding a unicycle. I am suggesting that it is important to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Some of life’s most important lessons do not come easy.
Ideas for Implementation
- What have you always wanted to do? Take singing lessons, hike the Appalachian Trail or take a college course? If it’s realistic; go for it. If not, modify your dream to fit your current situation.
- Develop a plan with a goal, action steps, and a timetable for completion.
- Find a partner to help and share in your newfound excitement.
Please visit the archive section of www.goalsettingforstudents.com
for more life skills ideas to help teenagers succeed.
Quote for Discussion
"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips speak only words of kindness." Audrey Hepburn
Permission to Reprint
We want to reach as many teenagers, and the people who love them, as possible.
a) Please cut and paste the Teaching Moments ideas into your newspaper, newsletter, emails, blog, magazine, MySpace, egroups, or bulletin board.
b) Use them as a topic for your radio show
c) Interview John Bishop for your radio show or publication
d) Forward to your friends
A byline with our Website or blog address is requested.
Homework Help
These are a couple of the websites that can be found in the “Resources - Homework Help” section of our website.
National Geographic
National Geographic for Kids
How Stuff Works
Conservation International
Homework Help
New Newsletter Format
Several of you know that we have been experiencing some difficulties with the old newsletter email sending system.
We are very excited about the company we have chosen to help us design the new website and newsletter. Judging from the positive reactions we are receiving many of you like the new changes.
We could use your help!!!!
If you have a Teaching Moment idea you would like to share, we would love to hear from you. We will gladly give you the credit for the idea and together we can help more teenagers succeed in school and in life.
Also, if you like the Teaching Moment ideas you receive, please pass them along to your friends.
Many thanks for your continued support.
John
Blog
http://teachingmoments.typepad.com/
It seems that literally everyone has a blog and now that includes us. Please visit the blog to read some of our more recent comments and thoughts on helping teenagers succeed.
More importantly, we need your help!
We want the blog to be interactive. Please help us make this a great blog for all people actively involved in helping teenagers get ready for their great adventure called life. Please tell us:
- Your ideas and suggestions
- Comments on our teaching moment ideas
- What we are doing correctly
- Where we need to improve
- Direction and/or topics you would like to see on the blog.
what we are doing right, what isn't working, yo
Books and Motivational CDs
We have put some very good life skills books and motivational CDs on our website.
http://www.goalsettingforstudents.com/resources.html
They deal with how to handle money, how to set and achieve goals, and how to reach your full potential.
Do you have a 10 - 15 year old?
I wrote Goal Setting for Students which has received three national parenting book awards. You will find it helpful if you want your middle school student to take more responsibility for their education.
