6.MEH.3.1

6.MEH.3.1 Interpret failure in terms of its potential for learning and growth.When a person sets goals, they must realize that success is not automatic or inevitable. Failure is part of everyone’s life and is often an opportunity for learning and growth. There are many examples throughout history of individuals who failed repeatedly and then succeed in magnificent ways (Thomas Edison, Abraham Lincoln). When failure occurs, it is helpful to ponder “lessons learned.” This helps one avoid making the same mistakes, find a better solution, and move on to more positive results. The ability to accept setbacks gives someone the ability to start again and increases his or her potential to be successful. If one is overcome with a sense of failure, then he or she is less likely to take risks to reach the goal. The willingness to try new things is associated with success and accomplishment. Thus one is better able to live more healthfully.

Sometimes it is helpful to put a failure into perspective or use the experience to set goals for the future. One might say, “That was the first time I tried out for a team in middle school. If I keep practicing, I’ll be able to make the team next year.” “Maybe soccer is not my sport. I’ll concentrate on my artwork and be the best I can be.” “If I start earlier on the project, I’ll do better in next year’s Science Fair.” “I think I’ll talk to Dad about how to improve my grades in math.”
 * The student will recognize failure as an opportunity for learning.
 * The student will be able to respond to failure in healthy ways.

6.MEH.3.2 Analyze the relationship between health-enhancing behaviors (communication, goal-setting and decision making) and the ability to cope with failure.To be healthy, one must practice health-enhancing behaviors. While knowing that failure can be overcome is important, taking action is the key to coping with failure effectively. Some of those health-enhancing behaviors are communication, setting goals, and making decisions. Having those skills makes it possible to manage a setback. The following are examples of using the health-enhancing behaviors to cope with failure:o Failing a math test: asking the math teacher for additional help before school (communication)o Not making the starting line-up in basketball: listing steps to take to be a starter next year by attending summer camp (goal setting) o Experiencing the break-up of a friendship: making the choice to take part in activities to make new friends (decision making)

The rewards of coping with failure are many. Some of those are enhanced self-esteem, improved confidence, and a greater willingness to take risks in the future. It is not possible to live life (or even sixth grade) without failure in some areas or at some times. While not fun, failure can be a growth experience and provide unanticipated opportunities. One of the healthiest ways to cope with failure is to use positive self-talk. Examples would be: “I know I can do this.” “I succeeded before, and I’ll do it again.” “I’ve practiced and practiced. I have the skills that I need to accomplish my goals.”
 * The student recognizes that practicing health-enhancing behaviors is a positive way to cope with failure.
 * The student will be able to utilize communication, goal setting, and decision making to cope with failure.