SELF-CONTROL

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In this session, participants will explore the concept of self-control, based on an essay about the baseball player who helped integrate major league baseball.

Category

  • Character
  • Self-control and Self-motivation

Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Explain the importance of self-control as a personal characteristic.

Supplies

  • The Key to the Game activity sheet—make a copy for each participant

Advisor Note

Text in italics should be read aloud to participants. As you engage your post in activities each week, please include comments, discussions, and feedback to the group relating to Character, Leadership, and Ethics. These are important attributes that make a difference in the success of youth in the workplace and in life.

Activity 1

DEVELOPING SELF-CONTROL

Pass out copies of The Key to the Game activity sheet, and have participants read it. After participants have finished reading the essay, use the reflection questions below to make the point that self-control is an essential part of success in life.

Advisor Note

Some sample questions are below. They are designed to help the participants apply what they have learned to their own interests. You are welcome to use these questions or develop your own questions that relate to your post or specific focus area.

Reflection

Focusing Questions

  • What do you think would have happened to Jackie Robinson if he had failed to control himself during his initial year in the majors?

Analysis Questions

  • What do you think were the motivations of Branch Rickey when he signed Robinson to play for the Dodgers?
  • How is self-control an important skill for leaders?
  • How might you use this in your potential career?
  • In what areas do young children in particular need to acquire the habit of self-control?
  • In what areas do teenagers need to acquire the habit of self-control?

Generalization Questions

  • What are some other areas of human life that require self-control?
  • How might you use this in life or in college?
  • Why is this important?
SELF-CONTROL