Overview
Before going to a school event, a student thinks about what might happen, like meeting new people or facing unexpected situations, and prepares to stay calm and enjoy the experience no matter what happens.
The Choice
Should Anders push through with more practice or recharge with a break?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.883854304635761
- Word Count
- 302 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anders and Eun-Kyung are preparing for a school talent show. Anders plans to perform a magic trick, but he's nervous about forgetting his lines. Eun-Kyung suggests they practice together, but Anders is tempted to skip practice and play video games instead, thinking he can wing it. As the show approaches, Anders reflects on the importance of being prepared and how he wants to handle any unexpected situations on stage. He knows that practicing with Eun-Kyung could help him stay calm and enjoy the experience, but the allure of video games is strong. Anders now faces a choice: (A) practice with Eun-Kyung even though he is tired, because preparation is the key to a confident performance, or (B) take a break and relax first, because performing well requires being rested and pushing too hard can increase anxiety.
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
Practice with Eun-Kyung even though he is tired, because preparation is the key to a confident performance
Take a break and relax first, because performing well requires being rested and pushing too hard can increase anxiety
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 self-reflection play a role here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anders 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.
