1. Victims Focus on their Weaknesses/

I’m terrible in this subject.

2. Victims Make Excuses

The instructor is so boring he puts me to sleep.

3. Victims Complain

This course is a stupid requirement.

4. Victims Compare Themselves Unfavorably to Others

I’ll never do as well as so-and-so, S/he’s a genius.

5. Victims Blame

The tests are ridiculous. I got an F because the professor didn’t even give us a review and tested us on things we didn’t even go over in class.

6. Victims See Problems as Permanent

I’ll never understand this subject. It’s a waste of time to study.

7. Victims Repeat Ineffective Behaviors Going to the tutoring center is no help. There aren’t enough tutors.

8. Victims Try

I’ll try to do better but it’s no use.

9. Victims Predict Defeat and Give Up

I’ll probably fail. There’s nothing I can do. I can’t…I have to…I should….I quit

1. Creators Focus on How to Improve

I find this course challenging, so I’ll start a study group and ask more questions in class.

2. Creator Seek Solutions

I’m having difficulty staying awake in this class, so I’m going to ask permission to record the lectures. Then I‘ll listen to them a little at a time and take detailed notes. Or I’ll sit up front.

3. Creators Turn Complaints into Requests

I don’t understand why this course is required, so I’m going to ask my instructor to help me see how it will benefit me in the future.

4. Creators Seek Help from Those More Skilled I need help in this course, so I’m going to get a tutor or go to the tutoring center.

5. Creators Accept Responsibility

I got an F on the test because I didn’t read the assignments carefully and I waited until the last minute to study. From now on I’ll take detailed notes and study in advance.

6. Creators Treat Problems as Temporary Studying one night a week for this subject isn’t working. I’ll experiment with studying a little bit every day and see if I learn it better.

7. Creators do Something New

I’ve been going to the tutoring center right after lunch when it’s really busy. I’ll start going in the morning to see if more tutors are available then.

8. Creators Do

To do better, I’ll do the following: Attend class regularly, take good notes, ask questions in class, start a study group, and make an appointment with the teacher.

9. Creators Think Positively and Look for a Better Choice

I’ll find a way. There’s always something I can do. I can….I choose to…I will….I’ll keep going