unit 1 – essential skills for working and...

GLN4O – Navigating the Workplace Unit 2

Unit 2 – Personal Management

Lesson 6 – Self Knowledge

Soon you will be leaving high school. You will be entering a new part of your life. You and your classmates will go separate ways. You will do different things. You will follow different dreams.

You will suddenly become a totally different person. Changing from a student to a worker is not a giant leap. It is a series of small steps and it includes understanding yourself. The adult world is a world at work. In the movies and on TV, you see people working. In magazines and books you read about people working. You see people working everyday.

Your interests, strengths, values, attitudes and personal history all combine to make you who you are. In this unit you will gather and analyze information about yourself. You will look at how others see you to give you a more complete picture.

QUESTION #1 – How Is Your Self Image at This Moment?

To check up on your self image at this very moment, answer these questions:

1. Do you really like your circle of friends and close acquaintances?2. Are you satisfied with the way you relate to others?3. Do you generally like the results of the decisions you make?4. Are you comfortable with your present environment? If your answers happens to be

no, do you have some specific, realistic plans for changing it?5. Are you satisfied with your level of maturity at this time?6. Are there challenges in your life that keep you on your toes – that excite and

motivate you? What are they?7. Do you accept your physical characteristics and do your best to make the most of

them?8. Are your leisure time activities enjoyable and of your own choosing?9. How do you feel about your sex? Are you glad you are what you are?10. Do you feel that you are in control of your life most of the time?

Career Cluster Interest Quiz

1. Go to one the following website or use myBlueprint and take the career quiz

http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/postsecondary/careerplanning/program/wizard.html

2. Try the quiz and print off your results if you are able.

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QUESTION #2 – Learning About Yourself

Read Chapter 12 in your textbook (Learning About Yourself) and then answer the following question on your own paper.

1. Create a table of ten (10) things you like to do. Beside each activity on your list, note whether it involves mainly people, objects or ideas.

Activity People Objects Ideas

QUESTION #3 – My Interests Time Line

Create a time line on which you can trace your interests from the time you started kindergarten until now. Be sure to include all activities, interests and events.

QUESTION #4 – Learning About Interests

Interview a parent, teacher or family friend (someone who has been working for at least 10 years) to find out the following:

- his or her interests- his or her aptitudes- his or her abilities- his or her habits- his or her resources

When you are conducting your interview, be sure to ask the question “Why did you choose your present occupation?”

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QUESTION #5 – Your Personality and Career Choices

Your personal interests, abilities and aptitudes can help you identify careers that will interest you. Use the following list of personality traits to answer the questions that follow:

Adaptable

Adventurous

Affectionate

Ambitious

Artistic

Assertive

Broad-minded

Capable

Caring

Charming

Cheerful

Clear-headed

Clever

Compassionate

Competent

Confident

Conscientious

Considerate

Courageous

Creative

Dependable

Determined

Devoted

Dynamic

Easy-going

Efficient

Energetic

Enterprising

Enthusiastic

Fair

Faithful

Flexible

Friendly

Funny

Generous

Gentle

Glad

Good-natured

Happy

Helpful

Honest

Hopeful

Idealistic

Imaginative

Independent

Industrious

Intelligent

Inventive

Kind

Likable

Logical

Lovable

Merry

Mature

Modest

Natural

Neat

Non-judgmental

Nurturing

Open-minded

Optimistic

Organized

Original

Outgoing

Patient

Peaceful

Persevering

Persistent

Pleasant

Polite

Positive

Practical

Precise

Progressive

Punctual

Rational

Realistic

Reasonable

Reflective

Relaxed

Reliable

Resourceful

Responsible

Robust

Sexy

Sincere

Sociable

Spontaneous

Spunky

Stable

Strong

Tactful

Talented

Thorough

Tolerant

Trusting

Trustworthy

Truthful

Understanding

Unique

Versatile

Warm

Witty

Zany

1. Which personality traits best describe you?2. Which personality traits would you like to possess?3. List three (3) ways to develop your desired personality traits.4. Explain how your personality traits may influence your career choices.5. Considering your personality traits, what careers do you think would suit you best?6. Based on your personality traits, what careers do you think you should avoid?

QUESTION #6 – Matching Traits, Abilities and Skills to Jobs

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Assume you are an employee at a computer software company. You have been asked to analyze personality traits, abilities, aptitudes and skills needed for various positions available in your company. The information you provide will be used to develop job descriptions. RESEARCH the available jobs listed below. Then copy and complete the information needed under each category.

JOB PERSONALITY TRAITS NEEDED

ABILITIES NEEDED SKILLS / APTITUDES NEEDED

Social WorkerCustomer Service Representative

Teacher

Accountant

Sales Manager

QUESTION #7 – Your Personal Priorities, Goals, Standards and Resources

Relate your personal priorities, goals, standards and resources to your future career by following the directions below:

1. List your top five (5) personal priorities in order of priority.

2. List your career goals – three (3) short-term goals and two (2) long-term goals.

3. Describe how your career goals and personal priorities are related.

4. Explain whether you set high or low standards for yourself.

5. Explain how your standards are related to your personal priorities and goals.

6. List your human resources and explain how they can help in attaining your career goals.

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Lesson 7 – Self Management

What Is Self-Management?You're smart, successful - and totally overwhelmed! You've got way too much to do. Some days, you don't even know where to begin. You may even have good organizational skills and time-management savvy - your problem is workflow. There's way too much work and not enough time! Every now and then, you clean up your desk & organize your office -- and it's great for a few days -- but within a week, the mess has returned and you're back where you started. What's going on here?

It seems as though today everyone is looking for a more enjoyable life of balance. When you get right down to it what you really need to put balance into your life--is more time. Unfortunately we can't control how many hours are in a day. And so we must try to control, instead, how we spend the hours we have. Effective organizational skills are just one tool that can help.

What are the Different Types of Self Management?

There are four types of self-management which are defined in the table below. These types of self-management have been studied alone and/or in various combinations and have generally shown to be effective in improving behavior of various student populations.

Type Description

Self-instruction Requires the student to make self-produced verbalizations to cue themselves concerning their behavior.

Self-monitoring Requires students to become aware of their behavior and make a tangible mark to keep track of it.

Self-evaluation Requires students to compare their performance against some criteria.

Self-reinforcement

Requires students to administer a positive or negative consequence to themselves.

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Self Management Skills

Do you have difficulty keeping up with assignments? Is your calendar too crowded? Are you finding it difficult to juggle home, work and school responsibilities? If your answer to any of these questions is YES, then you could benefit from some time management and organizational strategies.

Efficient use of time puts you in control of yourself. Once you assume responsibility for your success, you can make time work more effectively for you. When you learn to manage time, organizational skills follow. Once you determine the length of time needed to complete certain tasks, the way in which you fit them into your schedule, anxiety and stress are reduced. Good time management requires that you set goals and make plans for reaching those goals and objectives.

Formulate a schedule that contains some degree of flexibility to account for emergencies, disruptions, etc. Be sure to set aside some time each day to reflect on your vision as well as your long and short term goals. The strategies provided in these linked time management pages will help you to be a better personal time manager. Click the below links for further information on time management and organizational skills.

Personal and Academic Organizational SkillsThe Pocket Date or Day Book (High School Agenda): Ideally, the pocket date book should be an academic calendar (August-June) which can be easily carried in your shirt pocket. You should have this with you at all times. Get to feel that you are undressed without it. Use your date book to keep track of your assignments, due dates, appointments, special events etc. Some pocket date books can also double as your TO DO list. Don’t go anywhere without it!

The Master Calendar: You will also need a master calendar that never leaves home! If you should ever lose your date book, you have your master calendar as backup. The master calendar can be a desk calendar or a computer calendar, whichever you prefer.

The TO DO List: The TO DO list is the list of those things that you must do today. You may find it easier to keep your TO DO list in your date book. You may also use the combined Daily Calendar and TO DO List. It is a good idea to carry your TO DO list and your Calendar together if you prefer to maintain separate ones.

The FILE: This can be made from any set of file folders but using an expandable wallet or file folder of Kraft paper or plastic works best for the busy student. The FILE should contain at least 6 dividers if you prefer a weekly file or a 31-divider file if you prefer a monthly file.

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How to Get OrganizedFact: Becoming organized takes less time than remaining disorganized. What you lose by being disorganized can be avoided with a small expenditure of time and energy on the front end.

Key to Organization: Have a System and KEEP IT SIMPLE!

The System: How to make it work

A. Each day needs a plan of action. This is where the Daily Planning Session comes in. None of the “KIT” components are very effective if you do not plan your time for each day.

1. At the beginning of the day you should update your Calendars and prepare your To Do list for that day. You should prioritize your TO DO list into A's and C's. The A's (Top Priority) get done first the C's (Low Priority) get done when you can get to them. Have only A or C priorities!

2. Make sure that you pack your KIT in your backpack or briefcase.

3. If you will get into the habit of organizing yourself each day, it will pay you back many times over and you will have the sense of being in greater control of your academic life.

B. How to use the KIT

1. During the day you should write assignments into your Calendar and put important papers, assignments and handouts into your FILE. It is a good idea to date each item going into your file. Put each item into in the section of the folder for the day that you want to see it next. The key to making this system work is to make sure that you file everything that is important, everything you will need to see again. This system is simple and effective since you only have to file materials when you get them and then check your FILE each day for that day's work.

2. Update your TO DO list as your finish each task.

C. Study Time

1. When you begin studying, you should transfer information from your TO DO list or pocket date book into your master Calendar and take out the materials for that day from your FILE. This is what you will need for your homework. There will be materials in your FILE that you do not need right away. By

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reviewing all the material in that day’s folder, it keeps these items in your mind.

2. When you finish your studies for the evening, place the finished work in the folder of the day that it is due. Any work that did not get done or that can be worked on later, put back into the FILE in the folder of the day you need to see it next. With this system, there is only one place where you need to look to find your homework.

D. Write it Down!

1. Get into the habit of writing down everything you will need to know or do when you first hear it. Help yourself stop procrastinating by telling yourself to "Do it NOW!"

2. Remember: If you don't want to lose something you MUST write it down! If you don’t write it down, consider it already lost!! All of us have great memories, they're just too short.

Stress Management(Canadian Mental Health Association)

Although we all talk about stress, it often isn't clear what stress is really about. Many people consider stress to be something that happens to them, an event such as an injury or a promotion. Others think that stress is what happens to our bodies, minds and behaviours in response to an event (e.g. heart pounding, anxiety, or nail biting). While stress does involve events and our response to them, these are not the most important factors. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, our thoughts about the situations in which we find ourselves are the critical factor.

When something happens to us, we automatically evaluate the situation mentally. We decide if it is threatening to us, how we need to deal with the situation, and what skills we can use. If we decide that the demands of the situation outweigh the skills we have, then we label the situation as "stressful" and react with the classic "stress response". If we decide that our coping skills outweigh the demands of the situation, then we don't see it as "stressful".

Everyone sees situations differently and has different coping skills. For this reason, no two people will respond exactly the same way to a given situation. Additionally, not all situations that are labeled "stressful" are negative. The birth of a child, being promoted or moving to a new home may not be perceived as threatening. However, we may feel that situations are "stressful" because we don't feel fully prepared to deal with them.

Some situations in life are stress-provoking, but it is our thoughts about situations that determine whether they are a problem to us.

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How we perceive a stress-provoking event and how we react to it determines its impact on our health. We may be motivated and invigorated by the events in our lives, or we may see some as "stressful" and respond in a manner that may have a negative effect on our physical, mental and social well-being. If we always respond in a negative way our health and happiness may suffer. By understanding ourselves and our reactions to stress-provoking situations, we can learn to handle stress more effectively. We hope that this booklet will help you to build better coping skills for managing stress.

Stress Quiz

1. Go to the following website and try the Stress Test:

http://www.cmha.ca/mental_health/whats-your-stress-index/#.VSSD7fnF_Ck

STRESS AT WORKWhat is Job Stress?

Job stress can be defined as the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker. Job stress can lead to poor health and even injury.

The concept of job stress is often confused with challenge, but these concepts are not the same. Challenge energizes us psychologically and physically, and it motivates us to learn new skills and master our jobs. When a challenge is met, we feel relaxed and satisfied. Thus, challenge is an important ingredient for healthy and productive work.

What are the Causes of Job Stress?

Nearly everyone agrees that job stress results from the interaction of the worker and the conditions of work. Views differ, however, on the importance of worker characteristics versus working conditions as the primary cause of job stress.

Job Conditions That May Lead to Stress

The Design of Tasks

Heavy workload, infrequent rest breaks, long work hours and shift work; hectic and routine tasks that have little inherent meaning, do not utilize workers' skills, and provide little sense of control.

Example: David works to the point of exhaustion. Theresa is tied to the computer, allowing little room for flexibility, self-initiative, or rest.

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Management Style

Lack of participation by workers in decision- making, poor communication in the organization, lack of family-friendly policies.

Example: Theresa needs to get the boss's approval for everything, and the company is insensitive to her family needs.

Interpersonal Relationships

Poor social environment and lack of support or help from coworkers and supervisors.

Example: Theresa's physical isolation reduces her opportunities to interact with other workers or receive help from them.

Work Roles

Conflicting or uncertain job expectations, too much responsibility, too many "hats to wear."

Example: Theresa is often caught in a difficult situation trying to satisfy both the customer's needs and the company's expectations.

Career Concerns

Job insecurity and lack of opportunity for growth, advancement, or promotion; rapid changes for which workers are unprepared.

Example: Since the reorganization at David's plant, everyone is worried about their future with the company and what will happen next.

Environmental Conditions

Unpleasant or dangerous physical conditions such as crowding, noise, air pollution, or ergonomic problems.

Example: David is exposed to constant noise at work.

Who is affected by stress?

All of us are affected at one time or another by work-related stress. Although occupational stress is by no means a new phenomenon, it is becoming increasingly globalized and affects all countries, all professions and all categories of workers, including both blue and white-collar workers, as well as families and society in general.

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While stress at work is most frequently considered in the context of the industrialized countries, workers in developing countries are also undoubtedly affected. The evidence also indicates that a broad and growing range of occupations are prone to work-related stress.

The following table lists those occupations which equal or exceed the rate of 6 on a stress rating scale of 0 to 10.

Occupations with high stress levels

Occupation Rating scale

Miner 8.3

Police officer 7.7

Prison officer 7.5

Construction worker 7.5

Airline pilot 7.5

Journalist 7.5

Advertising executive 7.3

Dentist 7.3

Actor 7.2

Doctor 6.8

Broadcasting personnel 6.8

Nurse 6.5

Film production crew 6.5

Ambulance personnel 6.3

Musician 6.3

Firefighter 6.3

Teacher 6.2

Social worker 6.0

Personnel manager 6.0(Source: Conditions of work digest: Preventing stress at work)

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How to Relieve Stress at Work

It may seem next to impossible to find time to relieve stress at work, but a few well-spent minutes can dramatically increase your productivity, enjoyment and health.

Take a few deep breaths, allowing your rib cage and belly to expand as you inhale. Exhale slowly.

Seek a change in venue. Getting away from your work station, even for a walk to the water cooler, can help you collect your thoughts and refocus on the task at hand.

Laugh! Read one of your favourite jokes or simply laugh aloud.

Play with a stress-relieving toy or game like a mini-basketball hoop, dart board, foam stress ball or punching bag.

Close your eyes and listen to soothing music.

Visualize yourself relaxing at your favourite vacation spot or completing the big presentation with ease.

Add helpful reminders to your screen saver, such as, "Take a deep breath," or add a phrase or joke that makes you laugh.

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QUESTION #8 – My Daily Calendar and TO DO List

PART 1: Make seven (7) copies of the following chart and record your activities for one week.

Name: _______________________________ Day: __________ Date: ___________

Time Activity Time Activity

7 AM

1 PM

8 AM

2 PM

9 AM

3 PM

10 AM

4 PM

11 AM

5 PM

12 AM

6 PM

TO DO

Calls Texts

FACEBOOK

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PART 2: Answer the following questions on your own paper

1. Why is it important to establish priorities when managing your time?

2. Are deadlines only for work-related activities? Explain.

3. How do you set priorities for using your time and managing your life?

4. Consider the technology you have in your home. How many tasks will it enable you to do at once?

5. What rewards could you provide for yourself to keep motivated to do homework and study?

6. Look at your daily calendars. List the types of activities you have recorded.

7. Choose a task that you need to complete in the near future. Identify all the things you need to do to accomplish this task by making a detailed TO DO list.

QUESTION #9 – Coping With Stress

Currently stress and stress management is a concern for many Canadians. Create a “Coping with Stress” three fold pamphlet that includes the answers to the following questions:

a) What is stress?b) What are stressors?c) What is the stress response?d) How can you cope with stress?e) What are some tips for managing stress?f) What are the stages of stress?g) What are the effects of stress on your health?h) How can you prevent stress?

Be sure that you pamphlet has a cover page Make sure you have used correct spelling, grammer and punctuation Apply ALL knowledge & answers in a well-crafted pamplet Use subheadings, pictures, colour, desktop publishing etc. Ask yourself before you submit it for marks “Is my poster neat, colourful?” and “Is

all the required information present?”

Make sure your name, the title “Coping With Stress” are clearly labelled on the FRONT of your pamphlet.

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Lesson 8 – Conflict Management

What is Conflict?

Some typical definitions of conflict include:

← Disagreeing with another. ← Difference of opinion with another. ← Complaints about our performance. ← Criticism of our behaviour or attitude. ← Negative evaluation of our performance. ← Fighting with another. ← Stress inducing event in which we are confronted in a negative way. ← A test of our power. ← A threat to our control. ← An anger producing event. ← A threat to our security. ← Taking a risk. ← Speaking out for our beliefs. ← Risking the loss of acceptance. ← A time when no one is communicating; whether people are angry silently or are

yelling at one another. ← Someone acting in direct opposition to our request. ← Defending our rights when they are being ignored.

Focus on the Positive

Conflict is unavoidable, but when it had been resolved, you can work through your anger and other negative feelings and replace them with positive ones.

the positive feelings you experience will promote health in all areas of your life builds personality builds self-confidence feel good about yourself

Minimize the Negative

Many people make more self-destructive choices when conflict goes unresolved.

creates negative feelings of anger, frustration and hurt conflicts can lead to boredom, poor relationships, depression, drug use & abuse

and other physical and mental health problems people make more self-destructive choices when conflict goes unresolved

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Feelings involved in conflict

Negative Feelings Before or During Conflict

Positive Feelings After Proper Handling of Conflict

hurt cared for scared confident frightened relieved ignored listened to confused clear on things isolated more intimate with others challenged challenged to grow threatened open to truth unwanted accepted by others disliked respected put down supported controlled understood judgmental accepting of differences

QUESTION #10 – Avoiding Conflict?

People sometimes deal with conflict by avoiding it. Would this approach likely strengthen or further weaken the relationship?

The “Conflict Escalator”

1. Avoiding each other or subject2. Discussing the conflict calmly and rationally3. Arguing intensely and emotionally4. Fighting with raised voices, angry looks and mildly insulting remarks5. Fighting by yelling, screaming and making personal insults6. Fighting by pushing, shoving, hitting or throwing things, accompanied by extreme

verbal abuse

Making Conflict Work for YouWhen conflict arises, ask yourself these five (5) questions.

1. Why is this happening? What exactly do I want this conflict to accomplish?2. What can I do to keep this conflict from escalating?3. How can I figure your and respect the other person’s position? How will that help

me solve this problem?

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4. How can I get the other person to meet me halfway in collaborative, problem solving?

5. How will I deal with this situation if the conflict cannot be resolved?

7 Steps to Conflict Resolution

1. Know When to Intervene. It is time to intervene when the team or individual’s happiness and/or productivity are affected.

2. Address the conflict and Set the stage. Agree to try to work together to find a solution peacefully, and establish ground rules (e.g., no name-calling, blaming, yelling, or interrupting).

3. Identify the Source of the Conflict and Gather perspectives. Each person describes the dispute from his or her perspective, without interruption. Listeners pay close attention and then ask clarifying questions in a non-threatening manner. They consider not only what the other participants say they want, but why they want it. For example, if someone insists that you pay for something they believe you broke, they may be doing so not because they really care about the object or the money, but because they feel that you don't respect them. Addressing the other person's need to feel respected may be key to resolving the conflict.

4. Identify the Importance of the Conflict and Find common interests. Establish which facts and issues all participants agree on and determine why different issues are important to each person. Identify common interests, which can be as simple as a mutual desire to resolve the problem without resorting to violence or a shared need to save face.

5. Identify Possible Solutions and Create options. Take time for each teen to brainstorm about possible solutions to the problem. Come up with a list of options without immediately judging them or feeling committed to them. Try to think of solutions where both people gain something-think win-win! Too often we assume that for one person to win, the other person has to lose. In reality, it is often possible to think creatively and come up with a solution that both people feel good about, where both walk away feeling that their needs have been met.

6. Develop an Acceptable Solution. After a number of options are suggested, each teen discusses his or her feelings about each of the proposed solutions. Participants will negotiate and often will need to compromise in order to reach a conclusion that is acceptable to both. They may need to agree to disagree about some issues to reach an understanding.

7. Implement and Evaluate. The teens involved explicitly state their agreement and may even want to write it down. If necessary, they set up a time to check back to see how the agreement is working.

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What Behaviours Help in Managing Conflict?

Use ``I'' statements. Let the other party know how you feel when the conflict is occurring. Let the other person know how you react to the conflict. Let the other person know which of your rights you feel is being ignored in the conflict.

Be assertive, not aggressive. Speak about your feelings and your reactions. Keep the statements focused on how you are behaving, thinking, and feeling rather than on how the other is acting.

Speak calmly, coolly and rationally. In this way you will be listened to, and you will be able to maintain better control of yourself. Otherwise the other person may be put in a defensive attitude.

Avoid blaming. This will keep the communication flow going. It encourages understanding and empathy for each other's feelings. It recognizes that for a conflict to exist there must be at least two parties who are adversely affected by the conflict.

Create an atmosphere of healing. In an attempt to heal the wounds resulting from a conflict, all parties involved must feel that they are being listened to and understood; that their rights are being respected. They must feel the desire to work things out and a commitment to the process of working out the problems. They must feel wanted and cared for by the parties involved.

Be willing to forgive. Forgiveness is a powerful tool of healing. You have a chance for personal growth by forgiving others for their part in the hurt and pain you suffered. At times, this is the only way to resolve a conflict.

Be willing to forget. Once you have ``resolved'' a conflict and felt like you were listened to, cared for, and understood, then ``let go'' of the conflict. Once you have implemented an agreed resolution, put aside the conflict. Put it behind you. Get it out of your mind. Forget it. Don't bring it up in the future as if it had not been resolved. If you write down the resolution of the conflict, you will have written proof that it is over and is to be forgotten.

Be honest. In resolving a conflict it is imperative that you be honest with yourself and others about your feelings, and reactions to the conflict and to the resolutions. If you are feeling in a way you think you must, or in a way the others wants you to, not ``being yourself,'' then the resolution of the conflict is a false one. The conflict is sure to recur. You gain nothing by being dishonest in the management of conflict. You waste your time and energy and end up feeling failure or guilt rather than growth.

Focus on feelings rather than on content. Effective listening and responding are key elements in the productive resolution of conflict. Listen for the feelings and emotions of the other and reflect them with empathy and understanding. This creates an atmosphere of being cared for and listened to. It reduces defensiveness. It focuses on

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the process involved rather than on the issues, and it brings the parties to a clearer recognition of their individuality and humanity. To focus on feelings clarify the issues, eliminating extraneous items.

Show respect for yourself and for others. You will gain more in resolving a conflict by showing respect (honey), than by showing disrespect (vinegar), e.g., being vindictive, taking revenge, threatening, yelling, accusing, belittling, ostracizing, ignoring. If you are on the receiving end of disrespect, remove yourself as soon as possible. When the other has cooled down, perhaps the discussion can be continued in a respectful manner. If you lose your ``cool'' and become disrespectful, stop as soon as you can by either removing yourself or by silencing yourself. Maintaining a respectful atmosphere is essential in resolving conflict.

Be willing to apologize or admit a mistake. It is necessary to admit to one's mistake and to apologize for one's behaviour before a stalemate in conflict resolution can be overcome. It takes courage, character, and fortitude to admit an error: a lack of judgment; an uncalled for action; disrespectful behaviour; or a lack of caring, concern, or understanding. Stronger relationships can result when such willingness is exhibited.

Be willing to compromise. If you cling to your position as the only one to be considered, you are closing out the other person(s). To succeed in resolving conflict, all parties must feel like they have gained in the resolution. In order to resolve a conflict where the opposing parties are at opposite extremes on an issue, there is a need to come to the middle if all are to experience a ``winning'' posture. Only through compromise can each be a winner in conflict resolution. Without compromise, you have either given in or lost, or have gotten your own way with the other party having lost. Ideally, all parties should feel that they have won.

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Example: I think conflict is uncomfortable.

Never 1 2 3 4 5 Always

If you always find conflict uncomfortable, you would select the number 5.



QUESTION #11 – How Do You Handle Conflict?

Complete the following. DO NOT WRITE ON THIS PAGE.

Directions: On the following pages are statements describing possible responses to conflict situations. Reach each statement. Then select the number on the scale below the statement that most closely describes your behaviour.

Scale: 1 2 3 4 5never rarely sometimes often always

1. When strong conflict occurs, I prefer to leave the situation.


2. I feel very comfortable about taking a conflict between a friend and me to a third person.


3. I try to find a compromise when a conflict occurs.


4. I find conflict exciting and challenging.


5. I tend to concentrate on the problem and the issues in a conflict, rather than on the other person.


6. When conflict occurs, I act as though there is no real problem and try to “get along”.


7. I prefer to have a third person help solve a conflict between a friend and me.


8. I’m willing to “give” a little if the other person in a dispute is also willing to give on some things.


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9. It’s important that I WIN, even if the problem or issue in a disagreement is not really important to me.


10. I search for a solution to conflict that both the other person and I can find acceptable.


11. I would quit a job if many conflicts occurred daily.


12. It’s easier to have an outsider settle a dispute than to argue it out alone with another person.


13. I like to find what each person wants most strongly, then work for a point in the middle.


14. I hate to lose or not get my own way.


15. I like to look at lots of possibilities and options before trying to find a solution to a conflict.


16. When conflict occurs, I prefer to get out of the situation, rather than work to resolve the conflict.


17. I like to take disagreements to someone who has authority and have that person make a ruling.


18. I believe resolving conflict requires that each person give up something.


19. When someone tries to get me to back down or give in during a conflict, that makes me hold my position more strongly.


20. When I especially need to have my plan accepted or when an issue is very important to me, I tell the person with whom I am in conflict.


21. I prefer to walk away from conflict if there is strong personal disagreement.


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22. I prefer to have a counsellor decide for two people in conflict, not just ask the two people to listen to each other.


23. I believe working out a middle-of-the-road agreement is best, even if both people are still somewhat unhappy about not getting their way completely.


24. When I work to resolve a conflict, I work to win.


25. I consider the other person’s preference as well as my own and work to find a solution both of us can live with.


26. I prefer to let conflicts “work themselves out”.


27. I believe it is important to get the opinion of a friend when I am in conflict with someone.


28. It’s OK to give up some things if the other person gives up something too.


29. I believe settling a conflict with another person is not different from competing in sports – the goal is to win.


30. I believe a conflict is really a problem not a contest; therefore the goal is to find a solution both people can live with, not to “beat” the other person.


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The numbers listed below refer to the statements that you have just responded to. Write down the number you circled on the scale for each statement.

1 ______ 2 ______ 3 ______ 4 ______ 5 ______

6 ______ 7 ______ 8 ______ 9 ______ 10 ______

11 ______ 12 ______ 13 ______ 14 ______ 15 ______

16 ______ 17 ______ 18 ______ 19 ______ 20 ______

21 ______ 22 ______ 23 ______ 24 ______ 25 ______

26 ______ 27 ______ 28 ______ 29 ______ 30 ______---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Total Score, A _____ B _____ C _____ D _____ E _____Each column

Withdrawing- Going to a Compromise Win-Lose Win WinAvoiding Third Person

List the letters and total scores from the highest down to the lowest.

Letter Total Score

_________ _____________ Highest

_________ _____________

_________ _____________

_________ _____________

_________ _____________ Lowest

The total scores indicate which ways of handling conflict you use most. If two or more scores are close together (for example, win-lose 30 and compromise 28) you tend to use those methods about the same amount of the time.

If your total score is You tend to use this method

26-30 …………………………………………………………….. a great deal21-25 …………………………………………………………….. often16-20 …………………………………………………………….. sometimes11-15 …………………………………………………………….. occasionally6-10 …………………………………………………………….. once in a while

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QUESTION #12 – Recognizing Points of View

Find two (2) articles about two different types of conflict in a magazine or newspaper. Cut and mount each article on a blank sheet of paper. Read each article and identify at least three (3) reasons why the people involved in the conflict disagree. Identify two (2) points of view that are presented in the article. Is there any way to know which point of view is right?

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Lesson 9 – Working With Others

Strategies That Contribute To Effective Group Work

Working in Groups: Getting Started Groups work best if people know each others' names and a bit of their background and experience, especially those parts that are related to the task at hand. Take time to introduce yourselves

Be sure to include everyone when considering ideas about how to proceed as a group. Some may never have participated in a small group in a team setting. Others may have ideas about what works well. Allow time for people to express their inexperience and hesitations as well as their experience with group projects.

Most groups select a leader early on, especially if the work is a long-term project. Other options for leadership in long-term projects include taking turns for different works or different phases of the work.

Everyone needs to discuss and clarify the goals of the group's work. Go around the group and hear everyone's ideas (before discussing them) or encourage thinking by brainstorming. If you miss this step, trouble may develop part way through the project. Even though time is scarce and you may have a big project ahead of you, groups may take some time to settle in to work. If you anticipate this, you may not be too impatient with the time it takes to get started.

QUESTION #13 – Teamwork

1. What does it mean to be a good team worker at your job?

2. How can YOU become a good team worker?

Working In Groups - Organizing the Work Break up big jobs into smaller pieces. Allocate responsibility for different parts of the group project to different individuals or teams. Do not forget to account for assembling pieces into final form. Develop a time-line, including who will do what, in what format, by when. Include time at the end for assembling pieces into the final project. (This may take longer than you anticipate.) At the end of each class or meeting, individuals should review what work they expect to complete by the following class or meeting.

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Working In Groups - Understanding and Managing Group Processes 1. Groups work best if everyone has a chance to make strong contributions to the

discussion at meetings and to the work of the group project. 2. At the beginning of each class or meeting, decide what you expect to have

accomplished by the end of the class or meeting.

3. Someone (probably not the leader) should write all ideas, as they are suggested, on the board or on large sheets of paper. Designate a recorder of the group's decisions. Allocate responsibility for group process (especially if you do not have a fixed leader) such as a time manager for meetings and someone who periodically says that it is time to see how things are going.

4. Save some time toward the end of the first class/meeting (and periodically as the group continues) to check in with each other on how the process is working:

What leadership structure does the group want - one designated leader?

rotating leaders? separately assigned role. Are any more ground rules needed, such as starting meetings on time, kinds of

interruptions allowed, and so forth? Is everyone contributing to discussions? Can discussions be managed

differently so all can participate? Are people listening to each other and allowing for different kinds of contributions?

Are all members accomplishing the work expected of them? Is there anything group members can do to help those experiencing difficulty?

Are there disagreements or difficulties within the group that need to be addressed? (Is someone dominating? Is someone left out?)

Is outside help needed to solve any problems? Is everyone enjoying the work?

Becoming a “Team” Player

On some jobs, you may work alone. You may not even see anyone else. But on most jobs you will work with others. Companies are in business to make money. When you work, you must help the company make money. Working well with others is more than “getting along”. It means doing your part to help make the company or business a success.

It’s like being on a tem. Everyone must do his or her job. Have you played baseball? Each player has a job to do. When the ball is hit, the other team tries to get the batter out. One way is to quickly throw the ball to first base. It must be thrown fast to beat the runner. It must be thrown straight so the player at first base can catch it. The player who always throws fast and straight is a good team “worker”.

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Playing on a team can help you work with others. Being a good “team worker” on the job is even more important than on a baseball team. No one worker can do everything. Each must do his or her job. Each is part of the team. It is important to get that team spirit in your work!

Work Fast …. But Do a Good Job- you must get the job done without taking too much time- work as fast a you can to do a good job

Do More Than You Are Asked to Do- as a new worker do exactly what you are told to do and learn your job well- after a while look around where you work and notice things that need to be done- ask you boss if you should do them- soon you will know which things you can do

Finish Each Job- always finish what you start- sometimes this is hard, but always do your best

Team BuildingTeam building means so many different things to people. It can mean building relationships, entertainment programs, learning people skills, leadership skills, leadership development, accelerating change, merging cultures, kicking off new projects, incorporating different methods or cultures, or literally building teams.

QUESTION #15 – Teamwork and GroupsRead pages 202 – 205 (chapter 10) in your textbook then answer the following questions on your own paper:

1. Define leadership and give three examples

2. List five (5) qualities of position authority.

3. List five (5) qualities of earned authority.

4. List five (5) skills that are important for a good leader to have.

5. Name two (2) environmental forces that may contribute to group dynamics.

6. List four (4) ways you may personally benefit from being a member of a group.

7. Name three (3) ways a person can actively participate in a group’s activities..

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QUESTION #16 – Case Study

Read the “In the Read World – Follow the Leader” on page 206 of you text and answer the Question to Discuss.

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Lesson 10 – Resource Management

Managing Your TimeTIME MANAGEMENT is the ability to plan and use time well. You will have many things to do when you leave school and begin your career. You may find it hard to get everything done. You can, however, learn how to manage your time wisely. No one system works for everyone.

Time Management TipsThe following tips can help you get your life on track, and even result in some free time for you!

Generate to-do lists. Many of us live by these already. Make your list of things to do and prioritize them. Take care of those items at the top of your list immediately. Crossing off items brings such a glorious feeling of accomplishment!

Finish what you start.

Personal (ME) time. Block out at least an hour of each day for yourself, an hour where you will not schedule any meetings, answer the phone and so forth. Take this hour to generate your to-do list, meditate or finish a lingering task.

Set goals. How can you not waste time if you do not know what you are working towards? Set goals for your personal and professional life.

Learn to say no. Cut down. You do not have to be in every organization, attend every social gathering and chair every committee!

Adopt a 10-minute strategy. Anyone can commit 10 minutes of attention and effort to a task, no matter how unpleasant. After 10 minutes you may find you want to keep going!

Break it up. Break large tasks into component parts. Rather than deciding to read a book by Friday, vow to read a minimum of 20 pages per day.

Use a clock/timer. Sound crazy? It will help keep you on track! Give yourself time limits for meetings, projects, phone calls and stick to them.

Be assertive. Don’t let others take advantage of you or your time.

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Hide. During your “productive hours,” avoid people and places that tend to take up your time. If you go to the library to work and end up chatting for hours instead, find a new work area.

Take advantage of waiting. Rather than cursing under your breath about waiting at the doctor’s office, for an appointment or for members of your group to arrive, make use of your time. Read that article for class, start tomorrow’s to-do list, write a letter to your grandparents.

Listen carefully. If we could count the hours wasted because of miscommunication, we would be amazed. Practice your listening skills and learn to communicate effectively.

Be prepared. Make the most of your time and activities. Be prepared for classes, meetings and group activities.

Quality, not quantity. Do not judge your success by how many hours you kept busy today. Judge it by how much you accomplished.

Personal deadlines. Don’t just let your bosses and professors assign deadlines. Give yourself time limits for certain tasks.

Some things take a while. Accept the fact that some tasks take a lot of time. Schedule blocks of time for these in your planner, just as you would a meeting or class. Then focus your energy on that task for that period of time.

Plan your calls and emails. Don’t succumb to the pressure or temptation of constantly checking your email or answering your phone. Select one or two times a day for email (remember to set time limits!) and let your machine take your calls during your productive time.

Don’t Procrastinate. Do not put things off until the last minute. People who do often say that they work better under pressure. Many times if you examine your “put off” tasks carefully you would find that the tasks were things you really didn’t want to do. Not everything is fun or even enjoyable. Perhaps the fun lies in getting that kind of task over with!

Realize that Murphy's Law exists. 1. Anything that can go wrong goes wrong. 2. Everything takes longer than you think it will. Those two laws should be etched in your mind like the phone number of your girlfriend (or boyfriend), because they dictate the ultimate truth about time management.

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Dealing with TimeTypical Problems with Atypical Solutions

Problem Solution

Forgetting Appointments, Meetings, Etc.?

1. Buy a daybook, calendar or locate your student agenda and write down all important dates on it. Learn to rely on your daybook where everything is recorded.

2. Use a three-month wall calendar, color-coded, for critical assignments, reports, etc.

3. Use coloured post-it's for reminders. Put them on your mirror, by the door, on your car, etc.

4. Use computer software that assists in time management.

Late for work or classes?

1. Get books, clothes, assignments together the night before.2. Find your own system to get yourself up in the morning.3. Tape reminder notes on your mirror and put post it's by the door.4. Put important items in the same place every day (money, keys, watch,

notebooks, etc.)5. Make your bed by using a comforter, not a bedspread (or use a sleeping

bag).6. Cut out late TV shows (Tape special shows for the weekend).

Can't finish tests or important tasks on time?

1. Put your watch on the desk as you begin the test or task. Quickly estimate the time needed for each part. Mark where you should be at the half-way point.

2. Set a time limit for each question and stick to it. Skip items that take too long and do them later.

3. Allow enough time for the big point questions.4. Set aside time for checking at the end.5. If you get stressed, stop working, take a deep breath, relax your

shoulders, and return to the test.

No time to clean your room or house?

1. Schedule a "toss day" at least twice a month to clear out junk in your room (Toss with care - no important papers, notes, or tests.)

2. Set a timer for 30 minutes and toss and organize for that time (Won't seem overwhelming).

3. Set up a home office with files or file boxes.

Too much to do and overwhelmed?

1. Double up on tasks (laundry plus quiz review).2. Prioritizing tasks with 3 x 5 index cards

QUESTION #17 – Dealing with Time

List five (5) of the solutions from the above note that you use or could easily use in your life right now.

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QUESTION #18 – Managing Your Time

In order to balance your family and work roles, you need to plan and use your time wisely. Part 1 of this assignment involves creating a list of the tasks you need to complete today. Then rank the top 10 tasks in order of priority. As you complete each task throughout the day, place a check in the space provided. Use the sample chart provided. At the end of the day, evaluate your plan by answering the questions in Part 2.

Part 1 – To-Do List

Tasks for the day:

Done TO DO LIST1.2.3. ETC…..

Part 2 – Follow-Up Questions

1. Did you waste any time? Is so, how?2. How will you avoid time-wasters in the future?3. During which tasks did you procrastinate?4. Were your deadlines realistic? Explain.5. How did you stay motivated to complete the tasks?

QUESTION #19 – How Other People Manage their Time

Interview two (2) people who appear to be well organized and use their time effectively. Make a list of the strategies they use that may work for you. Develop a plan to use these strategies over the next two weeks. At the end of that time, determine which strategies worked for you and which did not and why?

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Money as a ResourceDo you go to the movies or out for pizza as much as you would like? If you are like more people your answer is probably no. Very few people have all the money they want to spend.

You may have noticed that some of your friends seem to have more cash than you do and can buy things you can’t. This may be true even though they earn the same amount of money as you so. Why do you think this happens?

Some of your friends may have learned how to manage their money better than you. Learning to manage you money wisely isn’t easy. It’s like driving a car … you get better with practice.

Getting a job and earning money are important parts of your life. The money you earn at your job will help you live the lifestyle you choose.

Factors Affecting Money Management

economics trends/conditions role of government in personal economics, provincial & federal budgets; benefits/

assistance/ allowance/ subsidies available influence of the media in shaping one’s expectations influence of financial institutions and "professionals" on economic behaviour of

individuals sources of information/ assistance societal beliefs/expectations about money and its use money as a source of power in society, status and power of women in society changes societal attitudes to women and children in the millennium changes in provincial and federal legislation effect of demographic changes on production of goods and services consumer protection legislation

Why budget?Budgeting gives you control of your money – and your life. It lets you see how much money you have, what you spend it on and how you can make your money go further.By budgeting, you can: pay off your debts faster keep up with your bills save for the things you want pay for those extra unplanned expenses buy little luxuries every now and then.

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http://www.workandincome.govt.nz/individuals/brochures/managing-your-money.html#top


Do I need a budget?To find out if you need to budget, ask yourself: do I worry about money? do I often have no money to pay my bills? does talking about money with my family cause arguments? am I unable to afford the things I want? am I always in debt? have my costs increased for some reason? have I given up hope of having money for holidays or retirement?

If your answer is YES to any of these, read on – it may be a good idea to start budgeting.

Some budgeting ideasStarting a budget is a big step – it takes good planning and a bit of discipline. Here are some ideas to get you started.Regularly put money aside whenever you get paid. That way, you know there’s money to pay your bills. It’s also a great way to save for a goal – like a holiday.You can: open a separate bank account and make an automatic payment into it every time

you get paid – ask your bank about this, or take out a set amount of money every time you get paid and leave the rest in your

bank account. A good way to save but you need a lot of discipline.

Pay off your debts as soon as you can because the longer you have a debt, the more interest you’re charged, and the more money you owe.

An easy way to pay off a debt is to put a bit towards it every time you get paid (but only after you’ve paid your bills). You can organize to pay it straight from your bank account so you don’t have to think about it – and you’re not tempted to use the money for other things. Ask your bank about automatic payments.

Only buy the things you need if you really want to pay off your debts and get closer to reaching your goals. The good thing is – when you’re closer to where you want to be you’ll be able to afford the little luxuries more and more often.

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Talking with a budgeting advisorA budget advisor is someone who can help you set up a budget for free. They will help you to: set up a budget draw up a plan for your future find ways to make budgeting easier work out how to save money and reduce debt get ideas on how to make more money deal with banks and people you owe money to find other people who may be able to help.

They’ll also offer encouragement and support as well as give you the right advice for managing your money.

Budget worksheet to help you get started Step 1My income each week (after tax)If your income is once every two weeks, divide by 2

Wages or salary $

Work and Income payments (include benefit payments and any extra help such as the Accommodation Supplement, Temporary Additional Support, Disability Allowance, etc).Call us free on 0800 559 009 if you don’t know what your payments are.

$

Payments from Inland Revenue (such as Working for Families Tax Credits or Child Support)

$

Other income (such as interest or dividends, rent or board payments)

$

Total costs each week (add all amounts)

Box A $

Step 2My costs each weekIf your costs are once every two weeks, divide by 2

Groceries (include groceries you buy separately from your weekly shopping such as milk and bread)

$

Rent or board $

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Transport fares or petrol $

Spending money (such as cigarettes and entertainment) $

Child Support payments $

Weekly debt payments (include benefit debts and hire purchases) $

Other costs (such as donations and children’s pocket money) $

Add all amounts, times by 12 and divide by 52 Box B $

Step 3My costs each month

Mortgage $

Power $

Gas $

Phone (include mobile and toll costs)

$

Insurances (include vehicle, house, contents, life and medical)

$

Credit and store card payments $

Monthly debt payments (include personal loans and hire purchases)

$

Bank fees $

Rental of goods (such as computer, TV and washing machine)

$

Add all amounts, times by 12 and divide by 52 Box C $

Step 4My costs each yearIf your costs are once every six months, times by 2

Rates (include water rates if any) $

House maintenance (such as lawns, repairs and renovations)

$

Vehicle costs (include registration, WOF, maintenance and repairs)

$

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Fees and subscriptions (such as schools, clubs and magazines)

$

Medical costs (such as doctors, prescriptions, dentists, opticians)

$

Pet costs (such as vet fees, dog registrations and catteries)

$

Clothes and shoes $

Household goods (such as kitchen items and bedding)

$

Other costs (such as holidays and gifts)

$

Add all amounts and divide by 52 Box D $

Step 5My Results

Your total income each week – insert the amount in Box A $

minus your total costs each week – insert the amount in Box B $

minus your total costs each month – insert the amount in Box C $

minus your total costs each year – insert the amount in Box D $

Your total income/costs = $

If your weekly total is: positive – great! You are meeting your expenses and can start saving. Some

budgeting advice could help you move faster towards your goal. negative – your expenses are more than you can afford. But it’s not all bad news –

your budget advisor will show you ways to reduce your expenses or even increase your income to meet your costs.

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QUESTION #19 – How Other People Manage their Time

Define the following terms in your notebook. You may have to use a dictionary or the Internet to find the meaning of some of the words if you are unsure of their meaning.

earned income wage salarydeductions gross pay net paybudget credit interestdebit card bank statement cancelled chequecertified cheque money order investments

QUESTION #20 – Managing Your Money

Complete the following open-ended statements about money management in your note book:

1. Now that I’m earning an income, I plan to …2. In the future, I want to be able to buy …3. To make the most of the money I earn,4. Of the many possible forms of payment (cash, checks, credit cards etc.)

I tend to use …5. If I see something I want to buy but don’t have enough cash, I probably would …6. When I buy a product or service that doesn’t live up to the claims advertised, I …7. To me, a budget is …8. The definition of a smart shopper is …9. The shopping advice I carefully listen to is …10. An example of the type of shopping advice I ignore is …11. A budget can help me manage my money by …12. The five (5) steps involved in developing a budget are …13. The type of purchase I might put on a credit card are …14. The type of purchases that should never be put on a credit card are …15. The six (6) types of credit are …16. It is important to build a credit rating because …17. It is important to use credit wisely because …18. The advantages of on-line banking are …19. A debit card differs from a credit card …20. To make wise investments, a person should …

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unit 1 – essential skills for working and...

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