Core Competency Activity

BUILDING GRIT AND RESILIENCE

Grit: continuing to persevere or work through a goal even when we struggle

Resilience: our ability to bounce back after we struggle or fail

 

1.  During Quarter 1, what went well for you?

Overall, Quarter 1 went pretty well. It was nice being back at school and learning in an environment where I feel productive. I was able to get to class on time and having only two courses made it easier to focus for the most part. Also, I joined the school’s rugby team. Going to practice has been a good outlet for me because I get to connect with other people, and it gives me something to do other than homework.

 

2. During Quarter 1, what did you find challenging or disappointing or stressful?

The majority of our classes take place at school and I am very grateful to be back. Although I find having long video calls challenging. Long video calls drain my energy and do not give me a sense of connection. I realize the idea surrounding video calls is to make online classes feel as normal as possible, but I would much rather have to work on assignments at home and have an opportunity to interact with others in person. Staring a screen for two and a half hours makes it challenging to focus. It also makes me feel unmotivated and tired. I am totally fine with doing assignments at home and having video calls once in a while but having long video calls almost every class can be quite taxing.

 

3. Think of ONE thing you really want to improve in Quarter 2 (and Q 3&4).

Throughout the rest of this year, I want to work on taking better care of myself. It is something I can do to help me feel less stressed about the year and what lies ahead. Taking small breaks while doing homework, and having a good sleep schedule, are great ways I can start taking better care of myself.

 

4. What are two specific actions that you can start doing every day to get closer to your goal?

To remind myself to take breaks I can set a timer for an hour while doing homework, and when it goes off, I will take a small break. Taking a couple minutes to relax and recharge; whether I get some water or going for a walk, will help me feel more motivated and productive when I return.

Having a good sleep schedule is something I have been trying to do for a long time. I have not done a very good job though. There is a book called Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker I would like to read. It may be that extra push I need to truly commit to getting good sleep

 

5. If you experience challenges, what might you do to work through them?

If I experience any challenges, I will definitely talk with my family. Sometimes I find it hard to self-motivate, doing something as little as telling my family about what I am trying to improve on may help me achieve it.