| Introduce topic by describing, activity name, content standard, and objectives. Begin the discussion by asking the following questions: -Have you been blamed before for something you did not do? What was it? -Did you know who did it? -What did you think of that person? -Have you blamed someone else for something that you later found out, they did not do? -Is it common to blame something or someone else for problems? Why or why not? Explain to the participants that according to counselor Bonnie Harris, M.S.Ed., "...many times we blame others for our actions because it is a way for many of us to avoid dealing with the real issues. Add that many drinking problems arise from other personal issues. In addition, we find ways to avoid dealing with those issues and we begin a pattern of blaming others for those actions. Explain to participants that they are about to watch a video that explains why it is important to recognize the root of our problems to deal with them and thus, stop blaming others for what we do. After watching video, ask the following questions: -What are the most common excuse people use to avoid responsibility? -What message does the video convey? -What are some of the reasons people use to avoid responsibility in the video? -What is the most important message of the video? As a culminating activity, and a follow up to the discussion of the video content, give each participant a copy of the article "Take Responsibility for Your Life". Give them some 10 minutes to read it and then ask them to underline what they consider important from the reading. Request from the participants the most important recommendations described in article. Make sure that they comment on why they think those recommendations caught their attention. The discussion can be guided by the following questions: -Why is it that people who take responsibility for their actions are happier in their own lives? -Why it is useless to blame others for our own acts or decisions? -What are the three tips provided to stop blaming others? As a final activity ask the participants to write a very short letter to themselves. Instruct them that they will identify one specific aspect of their life that they know they need to take responsibility for themselves. At the end, ask for one volunteer to share that letter if possible. If the participants do not want to volunteer, give them an example about yourself if possible. |