Ryan desperately wants to be the STUCO president of his class at school. He is not that popular of a kid and he knows that without making a name for himself he'll never get elected. On the weekend before the primary elections for the STUCO elections, there is a big party planned. Ryan figures around half of the kids in his class are going to attend this party and it would be a great opportunity for him to gain votes by being at this party.

Look for the facts. Determine what the reality of the situation is. Unless one gets the facts and accurate information one needs, one risks drawing conclusions that are based on faulty information.

     Ryan knows that underage drinking occuring at this party is almost certain. He also knows that there will not be any parents there, only a house full of teenagers. Also, according to his school's drug and alcohol policy, students caught using either will be placed on a probation restricting them from running for STUCO.

Imagine the possibilities. Imagine all the consequences one would suffer if he or she were to make certain choices.

     If Ryan attended the party, he might gain more friends and in turn get more votes in the election. But, he might also be caught drinking or just caught at the party. If the school found out he was at the party, he could be restricted from running in the election. Not only that, but he could get in trouble with his parents or the law.

Seek insight beyond your own. Approaching and trying to solve a problem or make a decision on our own often leads to our downfall.

     Because he couldn't make the decision all for himself, Ryan went to his friend Jake, who already held a STUCO position. Jake convince Ryan that he didnt need to risk going to a party to get votes. He could get votes someother way.

Turn Inward. Have interiority. Know oneself and examine your feelings, thoughts and insights from experience, values, and motivation.

     After gathering advice from Jake, Ryan thought to himself about the situation. "Was it really worth going to the party? Would I really get that many votes by going? Abusing alcohol while breaking the law is not something I would usually do."

Expect God's help. God is present in your life and cares about you.

     After thinking to himself, Ryan prayed to God for help in the decision. Turning to God was the last thing before naming his Decision, so Ryan expected that God would influence him in the right way.

Name your decision. When you can articulate what you want to yourself or others, the decision becomes your own and you are more committed to your decision.

     Before the weekend came, Ryan made his final decision with no doubt not to go to the party. After telling Jake what he had decided to do, he sought Jake's help on how to campaign.