Page 185 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Valuing Self Valuing Others

building self-esteem respecting
attending to personal needs being non-judgmental
identifying personal values empathizing
establishing an ethical code caring
committing to self sharing
trusting self forming shared values
creating a vision committing to others
maintaining a sense of wonder desiring to serve others
following convictions appreciating diversity
desiring self expression practicing family values

Sandra sits down with Ty and Alicia and explains her concerns and her priorities. If she gets on
the Dean’s List this semester, there may be scholarship money for her next year. And she’d really
like to prove to herself that she can be on the Dean’s List. She will not stop providing child care
completely; she enjoys the time she spends with her niece.

Step 4—State Clear Outcomes

The Personal Development Methodology helps processes and behaviors lead to positive outcomes. To
be meaningful, outcomes must be clear, measurable, realistic, and relevant to your intent and priorities.
Goals and objectives channel your efforts into actions and activities that will get you to where you
want to be in the future.

Sandra wants to have ten more hours a week to study. She and
her sister Alicia make a schedule. Ty also looks at changing his
work schedule a bit. They are also exploring campus daycare
possibilities, as well as arrangements with other relatives.

Step 5—Develop a Plan

Develop a comprehensive action plan. As part of the plan, include activities that will help you achieve
your stated objectives. Identify and list the people and resources you think can assist and facilitate your
growth. Also, consider potential negative or blocking forces which could impede your progress, and
how you might deal with each of them. Include a time schedule. Take into account the availability and
cost of resources.

Sandra has made a new schedule for school, homework, baby-sitting, and social time. Alicia and
Ty also have a list of people who could watch their daughter on an emergency basis.

Step 6—Perform to the Plan as Set

To achieve the goals of your plan, you need to set a timeline and monitor your results on a regular basis. This
will require you to be responsible and complete the tasks you have set for yourself without procrastinating.
Procrastination is a common problem for students and non-students alike when a plan or project seems too
large and daunting. This problem can be addressed by shortening the timeline and breaking the process
into smaller steps. General Creighton Abrams offered excellent advice for tackling a large project: “When
eating an elephant, take one bite at a time.” An instructor or a mentor can also help you keep your plan on
track, and writing in your Life Vision Portfolio is recommended here as well.

Chapter 7 — Addressing Personal Obstacles 179