Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

11-12-2021

Evaluating Priorities Can Make Tough Decisions Easier

“Should I stay home to work on my science project or go out with my friends?” “Should I wear something that makes me feel comfortable or buy an outfit that will impress my friends?”

Teens often need to make tough decisions. Compelling desires of the moment may conflict with choices that lead to long-term success. Thinking through their priorities can sometimes make these decisions a little easier.

Here’s an exercise that may help. On a series of note cards, write a list of priorities that may be important to your teen. Here are some examples:

Having a lot of friends, being popular.
Having money.
Getting good grades.
Getting into college.
Having a boyfriend.
Getting along with my family.
Excelling at _____________ (for example, music, algebra, cheerleading, soccer).
Looking good.
Being honest and loyal to my friends.
Having nice clothes and possessions.
Living a healthy lifestyle.
Avoiding drugs and alcohol.

Have your teen sort the cards from most important to least important. Talk about why she put things in the order she did. Talk about your family values. Has your teen faced a tough situation that involved a conflict between two priorities? Ranking her priorities may help her resolve these conflicts in the future.

Brought to you by:

Gwinnett County Public Schools