[Give Chances] October Newsletter 7 (7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Workshop)

"7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” Workshop

This week marked the beginning of our exciting “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” Workshop!

Led by a youth development specialist, teens came together to explore what it means to build positive habits — and to recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy ones.

After a fun icebreaker activity to get everyone comfortable, the group dove into the day’s topic: paradigms — the way we see and interpret the world around us. Teens learned that what they focus on most can dramatically shape their lives. For example, being school-centered or friend-centered can lead to imbalance and stress, while a principle-centered life (guided by honesty, integrity, bravery, and kindness) helps create stability and healthy decision-making.

Another key takeaway from today’s session was the idea of a Personal Bank Account — a powerful metaphor for self-esteem. Each time a teen keeps a promise to themselves, practices self-kindness, or does something thoughtful for others, they make a deposit into this “account.”

On the other hand, breaking promises, being overly self-critical, or acting dishonestly are withdrawals that can drain confidence and self-worth. By becoming aware of their paradigms and daily “bank account” choices, teens are learning how to build strong inner foundations that will guide them through school, relationships, and life beyond.