Self-Esteem, Motivation & Productivity

This topic discussed the meaning of, and the signs of healthy and low self-esteem, motivation, and ways in which we can stay motivated.  The session also discussed the meaning of, and the three pillars of productivity.

Solutions

• Proactively work on doing things that build your confidence
• Broaden your knowledge
• Build and maintain healthy and positive relationships
• Think about goals you would like to achieve and the changes you could make to your current routine in order to achieve these goals
• Get good sleep to make sure you have suffcient energy and willpower to ahieve and maintain your goals
• Use the support of those around you (e,g ATC)
• Make your goals clear and manageable
• Remember that success can take time but remember to look at the success in the progress you make along the way
• Utilise the 3 pillars of productivity model

Media Portrayal

This topic discussed images and perceptions in the media; the messages they convey, and the stereotypes that are sometimes formed from these portrayals.  The topic also addressed the harm and benefit to different groups; active and passive harming behaviours and the forming of racial and ethnic cognitions.

​Solutions

• Better representations in boardrooms, newsrooms, as writers in tv and film, and positions directly influencing policy and legislation
• More ethnic minority media platforms and discussion forums
• Actively promoting 'good news stories' through social media (Whatsapp, Facebook)
• Diversity training and diversity and inclusion roles within organisations to ensure that race, gender, pay disparity and conscious/unconscious bias are tackled
• Openness and a willingness to discuss perceptions and biases

Presentation and Appearance Awareness

Discussions were held about self-esteem: why people have low self-esteem, how to raise our self-esteem and how self-esteem can affect young people.  The topic also addressed the importance of presentation and making a positive first impression, how to gain and show a sense of respect to others.

Solutions

• Exercise - Improves health and boosts energy
• Food - What you eat has a direct effect on your body and can influence the way you look
• Sleep - Will help you to look and feel your best
• Feet - Comfortable shoes are important - and shoes are one of the first things people notice
• Clothes - It's important to have different outfits for different occasions:  what you wear to socialise with friends should be different to what you wear to  an interview or to work
• Smile - Can make you feel and look better 
• Prayer/Meditation - Can reduce worry and stress, and help to improve your mental focus

Crime, Weapons and Youth 

This topic focussed on the history of knives: what a knife was first designed to do and the different opinions there are for carrying a knife.  Discussions were also held on whether a knife is an offensive or defensive weapon and the notion that carrying a weapon can result in arming an attacker.

Useful Information - CPS Sentencing Guidelines

• For offensive weapons, the custody threshold is based on the combination of dangerous circumstances and actual use of the weapon to threaten or cause fear

A sentence at or near the statutory maximum of 4 years is appropriate where the offender:

• ​Has previous convictions for violence or carrying weapons
• Is convicted of carrying a particularly dangerous weapon
• Has a clear intention to cause fear or injury
• The offence was committed in circumstances involving specific aggravating factors (e.g. premeditation, hostility to a minority group or individual, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs)

Positive and Healthy Relationships

This topic focussed on qualities of a healthy relationship, barriers to forming and maintaining healthy relationships, and how to identify unhealthy relationship patterns.

Solutions

• Make self-love your priority.  Don't lose yourself in a relationship - continue to have your own hobbies and interests
• Continue to work on communication skills - listen well, be honest and open, but be sensitive to the feelings of others
• Give each other space
• Don't be too proud to admit when you're wrong - an apology can go a long way!
• Be committed to your relationship and its development.  Keep things fun and interesting.
• Accept that things may not be perfect all the time, but always strive to do your best