Handout

Quotes about Goals and Your “Why”

Students use this handout to read quotes about goals and reflect on what resonates with them.

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Handout

Language

English — US

Subject

English & Language Arts
Social Studies

Culture & Identity

If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes.

— Andrew Carnegie

The tragedy of life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It isn’t a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream.

— Benjamin Mays

He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.

— Friedrich Nietzsche

Reflection Questions

Choose a quote that resonates with them and spend a few minutes responding to the following questions:

What do you think this quote means?

Why does the quote resonate with you?

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the quote.

Activity

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Activity

Students practice gratitude by naming and recording three good things that have happened that day.

Two students look to the front of the classroom with smiles on their faces.

Activity

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Four students in conversation with each other in a classroom.

Activity

Students practice debate and perspective taking by taking a stand on a controversial statement.

Students move around the classroom in conversation with each other. One student looks directly into the camera with a smile on their face.

Activity

Students reflect on the day by asking them to share an appreciation, an apology, and an “aha” moment.

Activity

Students identify one personal or academic goal that they would like to commit to in the week ahead.

A Facing History journal sits on top of a student guide for Choices in Little Rock.

Activity

Students reflect on the past year and generate ideas for the kind of learning community and learning experiences they are hoping for this year.

Activity

Students consider what parts of our identities we choose for ourselves and what parts are chosen for us, as well as the impact our names can have on our identities.