Many people today (young and older!) have no concept of what a responsible decision really is. Most of us just make snap decisions, or we make no choice at all – leaving future consequences to fate and wishful thinking. This unit, targeted for learners in 8th grade and up, teaches a five-step process for responsible decision-making. The steps are:
1. Identify your choices
2. What's best for you now?
3. Consider others – Not only me
4. Consider your future – Not only now
5. Make a choice and go for it
Many of our life choices miss steps three and four, above, hence the title of this unit! It is our contention that a responsible decision is one where you consider others and your future before you decide. You don't have to do what others want or what the future will require, you just have to consider the implications of possible actions. By thinking beyond yourself and beyond the moment, you are more likely to select choices that have positive social and future benefits. This would be good.