Overview
If a friend is sad because they lost a game, instead of just feeling sorry for them, you realize that their sadness comes from how they view the loss. You can help them see it differently and feel better.
The Choice
Bjorn must choose between reassuring Hana or making changes.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.607608109691785
- Word Count
- 371 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Bjorn and Hana are working on a science project together at school. They've spent weeks gathering data and preparing their presentation. On the day of the presentation, Hana seems upset and distant. Bjorn learns that Hana is worried because she thinks their project isn't as good as the others. Bjorn knows that their project is solid, but he also understands that Hana's feelings are real and affecting her confidence. He remembers that it's not just the project itself making Hana upset, but her thoughts about it. Bjorn considers how he can help Hana see the situation differently. Should he reassure her by pointing out the strengths of their project, or should he suggest they make last-minute changes to boost her confidence? Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) Reassure Hana about their project's strengths or (B) Suggest making last-minute changes to ease her worries.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Reassure Hana about the project
Suggest last-minute changes
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How does understanding Hana's feelings help Bjorn?
- 3
What are the possible outcomes of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
