Here’s a quick look at responsibility and how you can help promote it at home.

• Do what you are supposed to do.
• Persevere.  Keep on trying.
• Always do your best.
• Use self-control.
• Be self-disciplined.
• Think before you act.  Consider the consequences.

What you can do at home to teach responsibility:

• Give your child a chore.  Thank them after they do it.
• With your child, establish a regular method for him/her to complete homework and have what is needed for school.
• Set family goals.  Have each member of the family complete the following sentence and post it where it will serve as a reminder: “I will show that I am responsible by _________.”
• Applaud courageous decisions where the pull to do the wrong thing was avoided.
• Be a good role model.

What other ways to you teach responsibility?

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Showing good character isn’t always easy – but like anything, it gets easier with practice.  Practice creates habits.

Here’s an example:

Joe wants to stop being late for work.  To get to work on time, Joe decides that he needs to get up 30 minutes earlier.  The first morning is tough, but Joe slowly pulls himself out of bed.  He arrives to work on time.

Fueled by his success on day 1, Joe rises a bit easier on day 2.   Days 3-4 slowly become easier as Joe adjusts to his new schedule.  After practicing this new routine for a week, Joe has created a new habit.

What is something you would like to improve upon?  What new habits do you need to create to get there?

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