pros and cons
You can either do your pre-work now or after playing video games. What is one “pro” of doing it now?
You get it done and reduce stress later.
A friend asks you to skip work and go fishing. What should you do first?
Stop and think about the consequences.
You forget to pay your electric bill. What is a possible consequence?
Your lights could get shut off
Name one feeling that can make you act impulsively.
Anger, frustration, excitement, or sadness.
You have two snacks: chips or fruit. How can you make a healthy choice?
Consider nutrition, energy, and how it fits your goals.
Name one “con” of skipping work and not going in.
You get less pay
True or False: Doing something because friends do it is always safe.
False
You decide to cheat on a drug screen. Name one short-term and one long-term consequence.
Short-term: You may pass; Long-term: If you get caught, you could possibly go to jail.
True or False: You should always ignore your emotions when making a decision
False
You have free time after work. Name one productive option.
Reading, exercise, or practicing a skill.
How can listing pros and cons help you make better choices?
It helps weigh benefits and risks before acting.
Name one way to say “no” to peer pressure politely.
“No thanks, that’s not for me,” or “I don’t want to do that.”
What’s the difference between intended and unintended consequences?
Intended: what you expect will happen; Unintended: outcomes you didn’t expect.
What is one way to calm down before making a tough choice?
Deep breathing, counting to ten, or pausing to think.
You’re deciding when to go to bed. What should you consider?
Sleep needs, work schedule, next day responsibilities.
You’re deciding between joining a new sports team or focusing on work. Give one pro and one con for joining the team.
Pro: Socializing and exercise; Con: Less time for family or rest.
If a friend is upset because you refused to follow them, what’s a good way to respond?
Explain your choice calmly and offer support in another way.
If you make a decision in anger, what kind of consequences are likely?
Negative or regretful consequences because judgment is impaired.
How can identifying your emotions improve your decisions?
It helps you understand why you want to act a certain way and choose more wisely.
You want to spend money on a game vs. save it. How can you decide?
Weigh fun now versus long-term benefit of saving for something bigger
Why is it important to consider long-term pros and cons, not just short-term ones?
Long-term consequences can have bigger impact on goals and future outcomes.
How can thinking about your long-term goals help you resist peer pressure?
It reminds you of what matters and helps you make decisions aligned with your values.
Give an example of a decision that could have positive long-term consequences.
Going to work every day, exercising, or saving money.
Create an example of a decision influenced by emotions and how you could change it using reasoning.
Sending an angry text → pause, reread, decide not to send, and respond calmly.
How can planning your day in advance improve decision-making?
Helps prioritize, reduces impulsive choices, and manages time effectively.