Page 19 - Jeff the Monkey

EXERCISE
Teachers and parents can use the “Jeff” character when encouraging you to do a difficult task. They may say “You are acting like Jeff the Monkey. What are you thinking right now that makes you not want to do this task (lesson or chore)?” They may ask you if what you are thinking makes any sense. If it does not make sense (Stinky Thinking), then think about it a different way. When you come up with a rational alternative (Good Thinking), do what you know you should do.
This type of encouragement will help you learn to think of different ways to deal with problems. You will then be better able to deal with difficult situations. This story is designed to help you take personal responsibility for yourself as early in life as possible. Many children seem to naturally fear failure or to take for granted that life should be easy. They are often anxious or angry in stressful situations and no amount of coaxing or threatening can get them to overcome their irrational beliefs.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN METHOD
One technique to teach someone to look at situations based on the consequences of their behavior is an old one called the Benjamin Franklin Method. Everyone knows that Benjamin Franklin was an exceptionally wise fellow. Supposedly, he used this technique to help himself deal with difficult decisions. You can use it with your difficult decisions, from doing homework or watching TV, to cleaning your room or not cleaning your room.
On a clean piece of paper, write “Good Results” and “Bad Results,” just like you see below. And for a problem: Should I watch TV instead of doing my homework.
Good Results Bad Results
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