We shifted focus to Resilience—the ability to recover quickly from difficulties. We discussed how challenges are not signs of failure, but opportunities for growth ("setbacks are setups").
Resilience is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success. Many teens crumble at the first sign of difficulty. Reframing struggle as "training" helps them develop the grit they need for adulthood.
Reframe It: Students identified a current challenge and wrote down "Lessons I can learn from this."
Parent Tip: When they complain about a difficulty (teacher, coach, grade), empathize first, then ask: "What do you think this is teaching you?"
Do I rush to rescue my child from every difficulty, or do I allow them to struggle so they can grow strong?
- What's the hardest thing you've ever had to overcome?
- Who is the most resilient person you know? What have they been through?
- If you could erase all your past struggles, would you? Why or why not?
The "Rubber Band" Object Lesson: Give everyone a rubber band. Stretch it. Discuss: "The rubber band is useless until it's stretched. How are we like that?" Share a story of a time you were "stretched" and how it made you useful.
Watch for recovery. When they have a bad game or test, notice how they handle it. "I admired how you didn't pout after that loss but got right back to practice."