THINKING TRAPS
You assume your supervisor thinks you are lazy, even though they never said that. Name the trap.
Mind reading
What do the letters CBT stand for?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Name two documents or pieces of information you may need to start a new job.
Examples: acceptable I-9 identity/work-authorization documents, Social Security number for payroll, direct deposit details.
What is the difference between a need and a want?
A need is essential; a want is optional or can often wait.
What video game character is known for collecting rings and running super fast?
Sonic the Hedgehog
“I already know I will fail this interview.” Name the trap.
Fortune Telling
Complete the chain: Situation → Thought → Feeling → ____ → Result.
Action
What should you do if you know you will be late to an interview?
Contact the interviewer as soon as possible, explain briefly, and ask about next steps.
Name two bills you should prioritize when planning a monthly budget.
Examples: housing, utilities, food, transportation to work.
What kind of animal is Sandy Cheeks?
A squirrel
Your coworker is quiet today, so you assume you upset them. Name the trap.
Personalizing
What is the difference between a fact and an assumption?
A fact can be verified; an assumption is something you believe without enough proof.
Name one question you should ask before accepting a job offer.
Examples: What are the hours? Is training paid? What is the schedule? What are the duties?
You earn $20/hour and work 30 hours. What is your gross weekly pay?
$600 before taxes and deductions.
What has hands but cannot clap?
A Clock
“I made one mistake, so I am definitely getting fired.” Name the trap.
Catastrophizing
You apply to five jobs with no callbacks. Give a more helpful thought than “Nobody will hire me.”
“I have not heard back yet. I can review my résumé, follow up, and keep applying.”
You have no paid work history. Name two experiences you could discuss in an interview.
Examples: volunteering, school projects, caregiving, community work, clubs, training.
Name one way to prepare for an early shift the night before.
Examples: set alarms, pack your bag, plan transit, prepare clothes and meals.
Who is the youngest player to score 10,000 career NBA points?
Lebron James
Your boss says, “Can we talk later?” You imagine you are being fired. Name the trap AND a balanced thought.
Catastrophizing. Balanced thought: “I do not know what the meeting is about. I can wait for the facts.”
A manager corrects your work. Explain how changing your thought can change your response.
Example: “They want me to improve” can lead to asking questions and fixing the work instead of arguing.
An employer offers $22/hour for 15 hours or $18/hour for 35 hours. Which pays more weekly before taxes?
The $18/hour job: $630/week vs. $330/week for the $22/hour job.
Your weekly pay is $500. Transportation costs $45 and food costs $75. How much remains before other expenses?
$380.
How many strikes make an out in baseball?
Three