When it comes to big life decisions, you can usually find your answer while looking at the short-term and long-term outcomes of each option. Eventually, students will be facing the difficult decision of what to do after high school. There is pressure from their parents, the school, society, and themselves to choose wisely. In reality, they have a lot of time to really figure out what they want to do and they can change their mind at anytime. Their answers may get a lot clearer if they look at the short-term and long-term outcomes.
In this activity, students will visualize the short and long-term outcomes of a major, usually stressful decision. Creating a decision through a storyboard can help visualize what the future may look like. After weighing the outcomes, the decision should be easier to make. Students should be encouraged to consider an upcoming decision, like choosing their career, in order to further connect them to the activity.
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Student Instructions
Weigh the outcomes of a difficult decision.
Help students translate their decisions into realistic, actionable goals by breaking down the next steps they need to take. Goal-setting makes the decision process feel less overwhelming and increases motivation.
Collect ideas from students about what immediate steps they could take after making a big decision. Group brainstorming helps everyone see practical ways to start moving forward and builds a sense of support.
Provide a template where students can list their decision, short-term goals, and a timeline for each. Templates make it easier for students to organize their next steps and track progress.
Set regular check-in times to review each student's progress on their goals. Consistent follow-up encourages accountability and allows for timely support or adjustments.
Recognize and celebrate when students reach milestones, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and keeps students engaged in their decision-making journey.
A life decisions reflection activity helps high school students visualize and analyze the short-term and long-term outcomes of a major decision, such as choosing a career or post-graduation path. Students use storyboards to map out possible results, making complex choices easier to understand.
Students can create a decision storyboard by illustrating a difficult choice and its possible outcomes in sequence. By visualizing both immediate and future impacts of each option, students can better weigh their choices and reflect on which path aligns with their goals.
Short-term outcomes are immediate effects, like how a decision impacts daily life or emotions. Long-term outcomes consider the future, such as career opportunities or personal growth. For example, choosing a job right after high school may offer quick income but fewer long-term advancement options compared to attending college.
Reflecting on decisions helps students anticipate consequences, reduce anxiety, and make informed choices. Considering both short-term and long-term effects encourages critical thinking and builds confidence in their ability to manage life changes.
The best way is to encourage students to visualize outcomes using tools like storyboards, ask open-ended questions, and facilitate discussions. Providing relatable scenarios, such as choosing a career path, helps students connect personally and engage deeply with the activity.