Stand Out and Up

Notice and Be Noticed

By Cinse Bonino

Some of us like to stand out in a crowd. Others would rather not. The truth is we all want to be liked, (not to mention loved and adored), for being who we are. In order for this to happen we have to be known. This can be scary. It can also be exhilarating! First to begin the Stand Out portion of our program take this quiz: Which of the following statements is most like you?

1. I feel comfortable saying exactly what I think in a group of other teens.

2. I hate it when the spotlight is on me; I just know that people will think I'm stupid or geeky.

3. I only feel comfortable giving my opinion if I know others will agree with me.

And now for the Stand Up portion of the show... Once again, please choose the statement that best describes you:

1. I never hesitate to stick up for a friend if he or she is being teased or unfairly accused.

2. I think getting involved in disagreements or arguments that have nothing to do with me only makes things worse for everyone.

3. I wish I could stick up for my friends, but I never seem to think of the right thing to say until later; my courage seems to only come out later too!

How much you choose to stand out or to stand up is up to YOU. No one gets to decide but you. Use your comfort level and the results you want to create as your guide. Experiment and find the way-to-be that works best and feels most right to you.