I+cant+funeral


 * The "I Can't" Funeral**

Give members a sheet of paper and have them write all their "I Can'ts". EXAMPLES: "I can't lose weight ." "I can't exercise ." "I can't do a program ." Give them 5-10 minute to think and write. Members who wish can share what they write but only voluntarily. Instruct them to fold the papers in half and bring them to the front. Have them place their "I Can't" statements into the class "I Can’t" coffin.

Coffin will stay in the class with a tomb stone for I Can’t hanging over the coffin containing their "I Can'ts"! At this point Leader announces, Memebers, please join hands and bow your heads." quickly forming a circle around the grave, creating a bond with their hands. As part of the celebration, a large tombstone can be made from butcher paper. and write the words "I Can't" at the top and put RIP in the middle. The date was added at the bottom. The paper tombstone can hang in class as a daily reminder.

"Friends, we gathered here today to honor the memory of 'I Can't.' While he was with us here on earth, he touched the lives of everyone, some more than others. We have provided 'I Can't' with a final resting place and a headstone that contains his epitaph. He is survived by his brothers and sisters, 'I Can', 'I Will', and 'I'm Going to Right Away'. They are not as well known as their famous relative and are certainly not as strong and powerful yet. Perhaps some day, with your help, they will make an even bigger mark on the world. May 'I Can't' rest in peace and may everyone present pick up their lives and move forward in his absence."
 * Deliver the following eulogy:**

Once the funeral has taken place, give students an example of how to turn the negative saying around. One method is to take out the most negative words first, e.g., never, can't, stupiD. Once those negative words are removed from the sentiment, ask students to consider what other statements they could construct out of the leftover words or phrases. For example, "I'll __ be good enough" might suggest the idea I am good enough - I just need practice." Other sample responses incorporating positive self talk:

This work is an improvement over the last time. Nobody learns without making mistakes. Even if I'm unhappy, I know this work will be judged fairly. Everyone has challenges and this one happens to be mine.

Students will design a sticker with a slogan on it that puts perfectionism in its place. Use words and symbols. Be firm, but don't be rude? Example: "Why be perfect when I can be me!"

Giving up before you're completed is another bit time waster. If you start a task and fail to complete it, what happens? You often have to go back to it anyway. You forget your train of thought. You lose time. Try tips to help persevere with a task:
 * Giving up too Soon**

Reward yourself for finishing tasks, even small ones. Tell yourself how great yoU are for getting it done.

Work with a buddy. It takes more energy to cancel a study date than to get the task done. When you need to finish something, avoid people who want to get you off-task.

Have a realistic schedule for completing tasks. Go back to your agenda or homework plan.

Think about the real consequences of not finishing what you are doing. What are they?

Your task will be to write down your no-quit strategy and why it works for you. Place that information in your portfolio.