Discuss
What is an abundant life?

Ponder
“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”John 10:10

Video to Watch: “He Polished My Toe,”

Discuss
How has Christ’s grace helped you obtain the spiritual and temporal necessities of life?

That day I learned that there is a solution to every problem.  ("He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

I am convinced that this principle of self-reliance and this initiative is a way to hasten the Lord’s work. It’s part of the work of salvation. ("He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

All of us can become better than what we are now.  ("He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

You have to let go of apathy. Many times we become complacent, and this destroys our progress. ("He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

Every day is a day I can make progress if I decide to do something different to improve what I’ve done poorly in the past.  ("He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

If you do it with faith, exercising faith and hope in Christ that He will be there helping you, you will find the way to make progress in temporal and spiritual things. This is because God lives and you are His son or daughter. " (He Polished My Toe" Elder Enrique R. Falabella)

Being self-reliant does not mean that we can do or obtain anything we set our mind to. Rather, it is believing that through the grace, or enabling power, of Jesus Christ and our own effort, we are able to obtain all the spiritual and temporal necessities of life we require for ourselves and our families. Self-reliance is evidence of our trust or faith in God’s power to move mountains in our lives and to give us strength to triumph over trials and afflictions.

“Self-reliance is the ability, commitment, and effort to provide the spiritual and temporal necessities of life for self and family. As members become self-reliant, they are also better able to serve and care for others.” (Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010), 6.1.1)

“Whatever causes us to be dependent on someone else for decisions or resources we could provide for ourselves weakens us spiritually and retards our growth toward what the gospel plan intends us to be.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Repentance and Change,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2003, 40)

Activity

Step 1: Choose a partner, friend, or family member and read each principle below.

Step 2: Discuss why believing these truths can help you become more self-reliant.doctrinal principles of self-reliance table

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How to know if you are becoming more self-reliant
“Without self-reliance one cannot exercise these innate desires to serve. How can we give if there is nothing there? Food for the hungry cannot come from empty shelves. Money to assist the needy cannot come from an empty purse. Support and understanding cannot come from the emotionally starved. Teaching cannot come from the unlearned. And most important of all, spiritual guidance cannot come from the spiritually weak.” (Marion G. Romney, “The Celestial Nature of Self-Reliance,” Ensign, Nov. 1982, 93)

Share what you’ve learned today about self-reliance with your family or friends.

The Glory of God is intelligence, or in other words, light and truth, (D&C 93:36)

God Wants you to have intelligence.  He wants you to know what to do in this life.  He wants you to know how to provide for yourself and your family, both spiritually and temporally

As a child of God, you have inherited divine traits and abilities…  You can develop these traits and abilities through experience and education.

You can get education and training through going to school, enrolling in a training program, learning on the job, learning online, reading books, and in many other ways

Education is the key to opportunity, (Gordon B. Hinckley, "The Perpetual Education Fund" Ensign May 2001, 53)

There may be a gap between how self-reliant you are now and where you want to be.  Your gap may be big or small, but it is a gap to be crossed

Education and training can help bridge that gap… lead to a better job… greater income, and improved self-reliance

As you continue to progress in your self-reliance, you may cross the bridge many times in your life to stay current in your field, to sharpen work skills, or to change jobs or careers.

One of the first steps in your education path is to determine how much income you need to be self-reliant. Once you know how much income you need, you can begin to explore potential jobs and needed training.

Activity

To help you know how much income you need, track your daily income and expenses in a notebook. At the end of each week, add up the numbers and record the total amounts on the Income and Expense Record on link provided.  You will use this record for the next several weeks. This information will help you select an appropriate job and training path.
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Over the next several weeks, you will develop a self-reliance plan. To start your self-reliance plan, begin with a self-reliance goal. For example, one participant wrote:“I will get a job that pays 20,000 more than I now make so that I can provide for my family and save for emergencies.”

Write your self-reliance goal below. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect. You will have several chances to revise it. During the week, pray about your self-reliance goal and talk to family members or friends about it. Revise it as needed.

My Self-Reliance Goal
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I will ______________________ so that I can ___________________________

Reward yourself. If you complete your assignment by a certain time, reward yourself with something you like (a treat, time to do something you enjoy, and so on).

“God sees us as we truly are. … His plan is to build us into something far greater than what we were—far greater than what we can ever imagine. With each step of faith on the path of discipleship, we grow into the beings of eternal glory and infinite joy we were designed to become” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “He Will Place You on His Shoulders and Carry You Home,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 104).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
Why is managing money so hard—and so important?

Discuss
Why should we keep track of and save our money?

Activity

Step 1: Individually review your spending below.  

Step 2 Discuss how you could reduce spending in the categories where you spend too much.

Commit to do the following actions during the week.

 Keep track of what you earn and spend every day. At the end of the week, add up the numbers and record the total amounts on the Income and Expense Record

Share what you’ve learned today about managing money with your family or friends.

Share what you’ve learned today about managing money with your family or friends.

"Decisions determine destiny", ("Decisions determine destiny", Thomas S. Monson, New Era, Nov 1979, 4)

Your course to self-reliance will require you to make decisions such as, what job you want, what education or training programs you will need or do, & How to pay for your education or training

You may worry that you will make the wrong choice about what work you should do and what training you should get. Many people overthink their decisions. They may want very clear answers before they move forward. But the Lord often gives us “line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little” (2 Nephi 28:30)

Nothing in life entitles us to success without effort

“Work is the miracle by which talent is brought to the surface and dreams become reality” (“To a Man Who Has Done What This Church Expects of Each of Us” [Gordon B. Hinckley, Brigham Young University devotional, Oct. 17, 1995], 6, speeches.byu.edu)

Companies hire people to help them make money or solve problems

They do not hire people just so the employees can earn money

If you are good at doing a particular job, companies may be willing to hire you and pay you for that work.

Education and training can help you gain the skills and expertise that will provide value to a company, resulting in a better job for you

Because employers are seeking people who can provide value to their company, it is important that you know what you can offer employers. What are you good at doing? What could you become good at doing?

The Lord has never given a list of careers ranked from the most important to the least important.

“I do not care what you want to be as long as it is honorable. A car mechanic, a brick layer, a plumber, an electrician, a doctor, a lawyer, a merchant. … But whatever you are, take the opportunity to train for it and make the best of that opportunity” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 172)

Activity

Step 1:
Choose the set of images that best represent the skills and abilities you have now or that you would like to have. Don’t be distracted by the pictures. Some people and places look different from what they would look like in your area. If you don’t see your skills and abilities in the images, share with others the abilities you have or would like to have.

Step 2:  Explain why you chose that
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Activity
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By yourself, quietly think about the following questions. Write your thoughts below each one.

What type of work comes naturally to me?___________________________

What work interests me? For example, do I like selling things, caring for people, or building things? Do I like detail work? Do I prefer to be assigned my work, or do I like to manage what I do? ______________________________________  

What skills do I already have? For example, am I skilled at solving problems, planning ahead, or working with my hands? _______________________________

What jobs would allow me to use the skills I have or want to learn? ________________________________
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Activity

Step 1: Write three jobs that most interest you. ______________________________________

Step 2: Take turns asking the group:“Does anyone know anything about these jobs?”“Does anyone know someone who currently works in any of these jobs in our area?”

Step 3: Write down any ideas they share with you.________________________________________
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The best way to find out about a job is to talk to people who do that job.

One of your commitments will be to explore the jobs you are interested in by talking with people in those positions. These conversations will help you make good decisions about your training and future work.

Some people you meet will be very helpful and interested in your success. They can become “mentors” to you. A mentor is someone you trust who can advise you, counsel with you, or guide you. A mentor can give you ideas, lift your vision, and help you develop your full potential.

Pray for guidance to find and develop these special friendships.

When you seek advice from others:
   Have a few specific questions to ask (make sure the questions are appropriate).    

   * Write down what they tell you.
   * Do not take more time than you asked for (keep it brief).
   * Be polite.
   * Do not ask the person for a job.
   * Thank the person for his or her time.

Activity

Update your self-reliance plan below. During the week, talk with people and read (on the internet and other sources) about the three jobs you are considering. Heavenly Father knows you better than you know yourself. Pray tonight about which three job options are best for you. You may feel prompted to add other jobs to your list or to remove some jobs.

My Self-Reliance Goal (chapter 1)
I will_____________________  so that I can ____________________.

My Job Plan
I will compare these three jobs:
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
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Individually think about what you have learned today and consider what the Lord would have you do.

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
How does my faith in Jesus Christ affect my self-reliance?

The children of Israel are carrying the ark of the covenant. They come to the River Jordan. The promise is they will cross over on dry land. When does the water part? When their feet are wet.   (See David A. Bednar,  “Seek Learning by Faith” [address to Church Educational System religious educators, Feb. 3, 2006], lds.org/media-library)

Discuss

Why does true faith always lead to action? Why is faith necessary for God to help us temporally and spiritually?

“Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?”  Matthew 6:30

“Are not all your exertions of every kind, dependent on your faith? … As we receive by faith all temporal blessings that we do receive, so we in like manner receive by faith all spiritual blessings that we do receive. But faith is not only the principle of action, but of power also.”  Lectures on Faith (1985), 2, 3

Activity

The path to self-reliance is a journey of faith. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve are inviting us to make increasing our faith in Heavenly Father and His Son a priority in our life.

Step 1: As a group, read the prophetic priorities in the box below.

Step 2: Discuss how faithfully honoring the Sabbath, taking the sacrament, and reading the Book of Mormon will help you become more self-reliant.

“Imagine the scope of that statement! The fullness of the earth is promised to those who keep the Sabbath day holy” (Russell M. Nelson, “The Sabbath Is a Delight,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 130; see also D&C 59:16)

“Spirituality is not stagnant and neither are [sacrament] covenants. Covenants bring not only commitments but they bring spiritual power” (Neil L. Andersen, General Authority training meeting, Apr. 2015)

“I bear witness that [the Book of Mormon] can become a personal ‘Urim and Thummim’ in your life” (Richard G. Scott, “The Power of the Book of Mormon in My Life,” Ensign, Oct. 1984, 11)

Committ to show your faith this Sunday by keeping the Sabbath day holy and reverently partaking of the sacrament

Commit to read from the Book of Mormon every day

Commit to do the following action during the week.  

-  Read the scriptures below. Choose one and share it with your family or friends

Scriptures about Faith in Action
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Because Daniel would not stop praying, he was thrown into a den of lions, but “God … sent his angel, and … shut the lions’ mouths, … and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God” (Daniel 6:22–23; see also verses 16–21)

Scriptures about Faith in Action
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The Lord gave Lehi the Liahona to guide his family, and “it did work for them according to their faith in God. … [When] they were slothful, and forgot to exercise their faith and diligence … they did not progress in their journey” (Alma 37:40–41)

Scriptures about Faith in Action
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“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse … and prove me now herewith … if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10)

Scriptures about Faith in Action
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During a famine, Elijah asked a widow to give him her last meal. Elijah promised that because of her faith the Lord would provide food to her, and her food never ran out. (See 1 Kings 17)

Scriptures about Faith in Action
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“When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them” (Isaiah 41:17; see also verse 18)

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” (Luke 14:28).

To become self-reliant, you need a job that pays well enough to provide for your needs and your family’s needs.

You have been tracking your expenses for a couple of weeks to give you an idea of your current expenses. Your next step is to estimate how much more income you need to be self-reliant. The job you select should provide that amount of income.

Activity

Step 1: Fill in this table with your estimate of how much you spend. You can choose weekly, monthly, or yearly. If you are uncertain, make your best estimate.

How much I currently spend?

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Step 2: Estimate how much money you would need to earn to be self-reliant. It should be enough to provide for your needs and your family’s needs now and in the future. Write that amount in the table below.

How much I need to be self-reliant?

Reality 1: Employers pay well for some jobs and very little for others
Understand what employers value. Many people have the ability to work at a fast-food restaurant, so pay is low. Very few people have the ability to perform heart surgery, so pay is high.

Activity

Step 1: Estimate the amount of money you would earn in each of the three positions you are interested in and see if it is enough to be self-reliant.

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Step 2: Verify the income amounts during the week by talking with people who work in that field or by doing other research.

Reality 2: Some jobs aren't in demand in your area
Some jobs are disappearing and may not have a future in your area. Technology replaces some jobs, and some jobs are now primarily done in other countries

Activity

Step 1: “Do you think there is demand in the jobs you are interested in your area?”

Step 2: Verify the demand for the jobs you are interested in by talking with people or doing research. Eliminate those jobs that aren’t in demand.

Reality 3: It might take multiple steps to get to the job you want
Some jobs take a lot of training and time to qualify for. Some training is expensive and may not be available in your area. Many jobs also require experience in addition to the training. You will want to know what steps may be needed to obtain the jobs that interest you.

Activity

List the steps you might need to take to get where you want to go. Include the training and experience you would need.

Reality 4:  Work is work.  You won't enjoy everything about your job
Understand the nature of work. Some people wait for the perfect job to come along—a job they think they won’t have any difficulties doing. For example, Stefano turned down several job opportunities because they were “beneath him” when he should have taken them.Successful people move forward and take jobs, knowing they will like some things and dislike other things about their jobs.

As you talk with people this week about your possible jobs, be sure to ask what the people like and do not like about their jobs

The best way to learn more about these jobs and narrow them down is to talk with people who work in these types of positions and ask them any questions you might have.

Activity

Step 1: Write down the names of three people you could talk with to learn more about the jobs you are interested in. These can include people your group suggested last week, people you have met with previously, and new people.
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1. ____________________________
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2. ____________________________
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3. ____________________________
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Step 2: Imagine that you are meeting with someone on your list. Practice asking the following questions:* What do you like about your job?

- What type of training or education is needed to do what you do?

- What kind of experience would be helpful for someone interested in this job?

- What income is typical for this field?

- What kinds of things do you not like about your job?

- How much demand is there for jobs in this field?

- Who else would you recommend I talk with?

- What advice would you have for someone like me?

How will talking with people help you narrow your choice of jobs?

Activity

Update your self-reliance plan. Work to complete the newest part of selecting what job you want and why.

My Self-Reliance Goal (chapter 1)

I will ________________________

so that I can__________________

My Job Plan (chapters 2 and 3)
I compared these three jobs:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The job I chose for me is ______________ because of the following things I learned from employers and others about the job realities in my area:

“[Your chosen field] should be one which will challenge your intellect and which will make maximum utilization of your talents and your capabilities. Finally, it should be a field that will supply sufficient [pay] to provide adequately for your companion and your children” (Thomas S. Monson, “Life’s Greatest Decisions” [Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Sept. 7, 2013], lds.org/media-library).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
How does learning create opportunity?

“Education for a Better Life,”

“Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith. … Establish a house … of learning.” D&C 88:118–19

“We have a responsibility and a challenge to take our places in the world of business, science, government, medicine, education, and every other worthwhile and constructive vocation. We have an obligation to train our hands and minds to excel in the work of the world for the blessing of all mankind.”  Gordon B. Hinckley, “A City upon a Hill,” Ensign, July 1990, 5

Activity
Answer the questions below to start creating your vision or “life’s mission.”
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Commit
Commit to do the following actions during this week. Check the box when you complete each action.    

- Complete the following goals and mentor activities.    

- Finish writing your “life’s mission” plan and discuss it with your family.    

- Ask someone to be your mentor and set a time to meet.

“This is a gospel of repentance, and we need to be repenting and resolving. Indeed, the process of repenting, making commitments, and setting goals should be a continuous one. … I commend the practice to you.” Howard W. Hunter, “The Dauntless Spirit of Resolution” (Brigham Young University devotional, Jan. 5, 1992), 2, speeches.byu.edu

Activity—Creating Goals

Step 1: Read the quote from President Howard W. Hunter (above). Through goals, our hopes are transformed into action.

Goals should:
- Be specific and measurable.
- Be written down and placed where you can see them at least daily.
- Have set completion times.
- Have specific actions to take to accomplish the goal.
- Be constantly reviewed, reported, and updated.

Step 2: On a separate sheet of paper, write two or three goals that will help you achieve your life’s mission. Follow the example below. Place the paper where you can see it daily.
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There are different kinds of mentors. You may need someone with a lot of experience to answer your questions—someone who has done what you want to do. Other mentors can be righteous friends or family members. These are people willing to spend more time encouraging you to make changes in your life and holding you accountable to progress.

“In my young adult years, I sought counsel from my parents and from faithful, trusted advisers. One was a priesthood leader; another was a teacher who believed in me. … Prayerfully select mentors who have your spiritual well-being at heart.” Robert D. Hales, “Meeting the Challenges of Today’s World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 46

Activity—Finding a Mentor

Step 1: Read Principles X and Y above

Step 2: Think about the kind of help you need. Write a list of people who could be your mentors. Ponder and pray about your list of names.

Step 3: Answer the questions below to start a mentor relationship. To invite someone to be your mentor, you could simply ask, “I’m trying to make a change in my life. Would you be willing to help me?”
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Step 4: Remember that you are responsible for your “life’s mission.” When you meet with your mentor:

- Review your progress.

- Review the roadblocks to your progress and what you are doing to overcome them.

- Review specifically what you plan to do before you meet with your mentor again.

Activity

Step 1: Write down the job you have selected:

Step 2: As an individual, family, or group, take 30 seconds to share your desired job and why you chose it.

To be able to get the job you chose, you need to learn how to do the job

Learning comes through training and experience

Among other factors, companies make their hiring choices based on your level of education and experience

Schools, companies, and other institutions offer training for all different types of work. Look for the training that best fits the job you chose.  For example, Arlene want to go into health care and will probably find the education she needs at a college or university. Juan wants to go into construction and will probably find the training he needs at a technical school, through an apprenticeship, or even on the job

Activity

Step 1: Read the information in the following table. If the job you chose is not included in the table, discuss the training that is typically needed for your work.

Step 2: If the typical training is different for your area, discuss those differences as a group and put a check mark by the training you need.

You may have found from your conversations and research that you need experience as well as training to qualify for your desired job. You may need to take lower-level positions first, perhaps while getting your training, to get a better job later

Now that you know what type of training is required, it’s time to identify specific providers. For example, Juan found two technical schools and one employer in the area that could help him certify as a welder.

Activity

Step 1: On the lines below, write the names of at least three schools, businesses, or other organizations that might offer the training you need.

Step 2: Consider the names of the schools or training providers you have identified and why you think they would be good training options.

Not all education and training are created equal. Some training programs and schools are better than others. Some programs may be more effective at training students and have higher job placement rates. Some might be difficult to get into, or perhaps many students don’t complete their program. Some schools might be expensive, so you will need to determine if they are worth the cost.

Find an education or training provider that offers the best combination of these factors:

- High job placement rate (quality)

- Likelihood of getting accepted and completing the program or training

- Affordability

For example,
Rachel is considering three different schools, as compared in the following table. In her research she has found this information:

Discuss
Which factors are most important to you when selecting a school or training provider?

The best ways to learn about your training options are to (1) talk with people who work at the schools or training programs and (2) do some research on your own. Many schools and training providers have people who can answer your questions. Contact a person in the organization, express interest in the training, and ask to speak with someone who can answer your questions. It might be helpful to contact people in the following roles:

- Admissions adviser

- Program adviser

- Training managerInformation desk

- Specific instructors

You can also call the school or training provider, review information on its website, and talk to other people who have been through the program.

Discuss:
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What other sources could help you get the information you need about a school or training provider?

Read:
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As you do your research, find answers to specific questions to help you make your decision.

Activity

Step 1: Pair up with your action partner and take turns role-playing or imagining you are visiting with a school contact to learn more about the program or training you are interested in. One person plays the role of the contact at the school. First introduce yourself by saying something like “Hi, my name is . I am interested in your  program. Can I ask you a few questions?”

Step 2: Ask at least three of the questions from the list below. The other partner can make up his or her answers.

Step 3: Switch roles and repeat the activity.
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Use the questions in “Evaluating My Training Options” table below when you talk to schools or training providers this week. Be sure to get this information so you can use it in next week’s meeting.
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What other questions do you think might be helpful to ask?

Activity

Update your self-reliance plan. Work to complete the newest part of selecting what job you want and why.

My Self-Reliance Goal (chapter 1)

I will ________________________

so that I can__________________

My Job Plan (chapters 2 and 3)
I compared these three jobs:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The job I chose for me is ______________ because of the following things I learned from employers and others about the job realities in my area:


My Education Plan (Chapter 4)
I will research these three training options:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

“You face great challenges that lie ahead. You are moving into a world of fierce competition. You must get all of the education you can. The Lord has instructed us concerning the importance of education. It will qualify you for greater opportunities. It will equip you to do something worthwhile in the great world of opportunity that lies ahead. If you can go to college and that is your wish, then do it. If you have no desire to attend college, then go to a vocational or business school to sharpen your skills and increase your capacity” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “Converts and Young Men,” Ensign, May 1997, 49–50).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder:
How are repentance and obedience connected to self-reliance?

Obedience Brings Blessings

“He that keepeth [God’s] commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things" (D&C 93:28)

My brothers and sisters, the great test of this life is obedience. - (Thomas S. Monson “Obedience Brings Blessings,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 89, 92)

Discuss:
What blessings have you received by obeying God’s laws?
How does repentance help us progress?

“There is a law … upon which all blessings are predicated—and when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.” (D&C 130:20–21)

“I made this my rule: When the Lord commands, do it.” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 160)

Activity - Obedience to specific laws leads to specific blessings.

Step 1: On your own, write some blessings you desire in the left column.

Step 2: Identify which laws or principles you will need to obey in order to receive the blessings you desire.
blessings and principles chart

“Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” (Joshua 3:5)

“The Lord blesses those who want to improve, who accept the need for commandments and try to keep them. … He will help you repent, repair, fix whatever you have to fix, and keep going. Soon enough you will have the success you seek.” (Jeffrey R. Holland, “Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders among You,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 126)

“If we like luxuries or even necessities more than we like obedience, we will miss the blessings which he would like to give us.” (Spencer W. Kimball, in The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball (1982), 212)

Commit
Commit to do the following actions during the week.

Obey the law you chose in the activity above.    

Share what you’ve learned today about obedience with your family or friends.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about obedience with your family or friends.

As you consider what school or training program you will pursue, remember the counsel of Elder Dallin H. Oaks about good, better, or best.

“The Lord wants you to educate your minds and hands, whatever your chosen field. Whether it be repairing refrigerators, or the work of a skilled surgeon, you must train yourselves. Seek for the best schooling available. Become a [worker] of integrity in the world that lies ahead of you” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Ensign, Jan. 2001, 7)

One of the most important indicators of the quality of a school or training program is how successful its graduates are at getting their desired jobs.

Example
Juan gathered some helpful information about job placement rates of the certificate programs he is considering. He then made a choice of “good, better, or best.”
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What do you think of Juan's ranking?
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Activity

Step 1: Fill in the following table with the information you gathered during the week.

Step 2: Make a choice of good, better, or best.
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A school may be a good fit for you, but are you a good fit for the school? Schools set standards of who qualifies to enter the program.

Some people get into a school but then drop out. They may drop out because the program is weak or not what they were expecting. They may drop out because it is too difficult. Compare schools to better understand how likely you are to get in and to finish.

Example
Juan used the following information to compare training programs and the likelihood of getting accepted and finishing.
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What do you think of Juan's ranking?
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Activity

Step 1: Fill in the following table with the information you gathered during the week.

Step 2: Make a choice of good, better, or best.
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Different education and training programs have different costs.

You will need to determine if you think the cost of the education or training justifies the kind of job you are likely to get.

You wouldn’t want to go through an expensive education or training program that won’t likely lead to a good job. You should look for an option that provides you the best value`

Example
Juan used the following information to compare the cost and value of the training options he was considering.
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What do you think of Juan's ranking?
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Activity

Step 1: Fill in the following table with the information you gathered during the week.

Step 2: Make a choice of good, better, or best.
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Now that you have evaluated several things, you need to decide which school or training program you think is best for you.

Activity

Step 1: Consider your rankings of your education or training options

Step 2: Now choose your overall best option that you will pursue by ranking them “good, better, or best.”   Congratulations! You have chosen the best training for you to become self-reliant. You can now move forward with confidence.
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Activity

Update your self-reliance plan. Work to complete the newest part of selecting what job you want and why.

My Self-Reliance Goal (chapter 1)

I will ________________________

so that I can__________________

My Job Plan (chapters 2 and 3)
I compared these three jobs:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The job I chose for me is ______________ because of the following things I learned from employers and others about the job realities in my area:


My Education Plan (Chapter 4)
I compared these three training options:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The training option I chose is ________________ because of cost, quality, placement rate, and other things that are important to me (write the reasons below):

____________________________

____________________________

It will take ______________ (days, weeks, months, years) to complete this training.

What are the most important things you learned in this chapter?

“What will you choose for a career? What will your work be? … [It] is our responsibility to strive to find where we can make a contribution to our fellowman—an area where we have some interests and abilities and where we can, at the same time, provide for our own” (Ezra Taft Benson, “In His Steps” [Brigham Young University devotional, Mar. 4, 1979], speeches.byu.edu).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
Why does Heavenly Father want me to take personal responsibility for my life?

“Sedrick’s Journey,”

Discuss
How do we learn to keep going, even when the work is difficult?

“Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.” (D&C 42:42)

Discuss
Why does the Lord expect us to work for what we receive?

Activity

Step 1: Choose a partner and read together each step in the pattern below.

Step 2: Ask each other to talk about a very hard task or challenge the other currently faces.

Step 3: Help each other apply the four steps below to the difficult task or challenge.
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Step 4: Write two or three ways you can move forward with faith, trusting that God will provide

How do I react when I experience failure?“
 
Our responsibility is to rise from mediocrity to competence, from failure to achievement. Our task is to become our best selves. One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying again, for no failure ever need be final.”  Thomas S. Monson, “The Will Within,” Ensign, May 1987, 68

Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Choose something that is hard or uncomfortable and finish the task.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

“You must get all of the education that you possibly can. … Sacrifice anything that is needed to be sacrificed in order to qualify yourselves to do the work of the world” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “Words of the Prophet: Seek Learning,” New Era, Sept. 2007, 2–4)

We have also been counseled to not delay other important things in our lives while we pursue our education. Don’t postpone getting married, receiving temple ordinances, and having children while going to school.

As you maintain your priorities and sacrifice less-important things, you will find that the Lord will bless you.

Discuss
Why are education and training worth the sacrifice?

You have explored your education or training options. Part of that effort was to learn how much your program would cost. These costs include things like tuition, books, fees, living expenses, transportation, and anything else associated with your education or training. It is important that you have an accurate estimate of these costs so you can plan how to pay for them.

Example
Juan found that his welding certificate would cost this much:
Education for Better Work Line Art

Also keep in mind your costs of living, such as food, rent, clothing, family expenses, and debt.

Activity

Step 1: Fill in your training costs or your best estimates.

Step 2: During the week, find out any remaining details.

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For we labor diligently….for we know that it is by bgrace that we are saved, after all we can do.  (2 Nephi 25:23)

As much as possible, pay for your education with your own savings or income.

Work while going to school.

You may need to spend less and take on additional work to provide more income.

Workng to pay for your schooling can also lead to other opportunities not seen before

Example
Leon wanted to be a doctor and got a job as a bagger in a local grocery store to pay for his education.  He worked hard and was eventually promoted up the chain to management, which included managing several grocery stores.  Eventually, the owner wanted to retire and offered to sell one of the stores to Leon, which he did.  Though this wasn't the original course he set out for, he found it more enjoyable while still being able to support his family.
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Example
Rick got a job sweeping floors and cleaning for a hot tub manufacturing business while he was going to college.  He was eventually promoted to building hot tubs, then installing them, then to sales, then to management. The time came when the owner wanted to sell his business for retirement.  Though just an employee, Rick took the offer to buy the company.  He took a loan out and with his business degree he earned in college, hetook the hot tub company international and eventually retired himself as a multi-millionaire.  Though he couldn't know the end from the beginning, all of this happened because he was willing to work and pay for his education through sweeping the floor with a happy attitude.

Example
Jaden wanted to be a petroleum engineer.  To pay for it, he got a job at a sand transport company shoveling sand from rail cars to semi-trucks.  His attitude and work ethic were so good, he was promoted to dispatch, then co-managing a facility of 10 employees, to sole manager of the facility, where he grew it to 23 employees.  Through this, he saved up enough money to pay for his entire schooling

Other finance options are available if you don’t have enough savings or income. Private organizations, individuals, and governments have established programs that can help you pay for your training.

“For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare; yea, I prepared all things” (D&C 104:17).

Activity

Step 1: Assign each member of the group to read silently one of the finance options below and on page 104.

Step 2: Take turns explaining the option you read, including its strengths and weaknesses.

Step 3: Put a check mark next to the options that seem best for you.
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On your own this week, learn more information about scholarships and grants, student loans, and Perpetual Education Fund loans.

“Many [people] in the world are going into debt to get an education, only to find the cost of school is greater than they can repay. Seek out scholarships and grants. Obtain part-time employment, if possible, to help pay your own way. This will require some sacrifice, but it will help you succeed” (Robert D. Hales, “Meeting the Challenges of Today’s World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 45).

Student loans are debt. Unlike grants and scholarships, they must be repaid and typically cost you interest. If you are unable to pay, you could hurt your credit or your ability to move forward in life.

The “Four Rights” can help you decide if a student loan might be right for you.    

Right reason: You are working while going to school, you have worked very hard to get scholarships and grants, and a loan is just to repay the remainder (not the whole expense) of your education.    

Right expectations: You have verified that placement rates are good in your area for the work you are studying for, and you are justifiably confident that you will get a job with high enough wages to pay back the loan in a reasonable amount of time.    

Right terms: You have compared different loans and have found the best rate and repayment terms from a trustworthy lender.    

Right amount: Your loan amount is small enough to pay back in a reasonable amount of time.

Ask your stake self-reliance specialist about useful websites for finding and comparing student loans in your country or area.

On your own this week, you can also read to learn more about how to compare student loans.

Also, if available in your country, a Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) loan might be appropriate for you. To learn if PEF loans are available in your country, how to qualify, and how to apply,
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Part of your commitments will be to explore the best options to pay for your chosen education or training program. Do your research and talk to people who will be able to help you. Many schools have someone who can help you. Try reaching the financial aid office, or contact the school, training provider, or business and ask to speak with someone who can answer your questions about paying for your training

Activity

Step 1: As a group, list the people and organizations you could talk to about scholarships, grants, apprenticeships, and tuition reimbursement.

Step 2: As a group, suggest questions you should ask these people about financial aid. Write down at least three that you will ask this week.
____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

.

Activity

Update your self-reliance plan. Work to complete the newest part of selecting what job you want and why.

My Self-Reliance Goal (chapter 1)

I will ________________________

so that I can__________________

My Job Plan (chapters 2 and 3)
I compared these three jobs:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The job I chose for me is ______________ because of the following things I learned from employers and others about the job realities in my area:


My Education Plan (Chapter 4)
I compared these three training options:

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

The training option I chose is ________________ because of cost, quality, placement rate, and other things that are important to me (write the reasons below):

____________________________

____________________________

It will take ______________ (days, weeks, months, years) to complete this training.
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My Financial Plan
I found that my training will cost me __________ , or __________ per month.

After comparing various options for my training and looking at my own finances, I found that I (could / could not) pay for my training on my own. I will need an additional ________________.

To pay for my training, I will seek (work, apprenticeships, scholarships, grants, tuition reimbursement, loans) ____________________________.

“The Lord and His Church have always encouraged education to increase our ability to serve Him and our Heavenly Father’s children. For each of us, whatever our talents, He has service for us to give. …“… And we will need the help of heaven to know which of the myriad things we could study we would most wisely learn. We cannot waste time entertaining ourselves when we have the chance to … learn what is true and useful” (Henry B. Eyring, “Real-Life Education,” New Era, Apr. 2009, 4, 6)

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
How does losing myself in the service of others actually save me?

“In the Lord's Way”

The principles at the foundation of the Church welfare program are not for only one time or one place. They are for all times and all places. …  (Adapted from an address given by President Eyring at the dedication of the Sugarhouse Utah Welfare Services Center, June 2011, LDS.org)

Those who have accumulated more are to humble themselves to help those in need.  (Adapted from an address given by President Eyring at the dedication of the Sugarhouse Utah Welfare Services Center, June 2011, LDS.org)

Those in abundance are to voluntarily sacrifice some of their comfort, time, skills, and resources to relieve the suffering of those in need.  (Adapted from an address given by President Eyring at the dedication of the Sugarhouse Utah Welfare Services Center, June 2011, LDS.org)

And the help is to be given in a way that increases the power of the recipients to care for themselves and then care for others.  (Adapted from an address given by President Eyring at the dedication of the Sugarhouse Utah Welfare Services Center, June 2011, LDS.org)

Done in this, the Lord’s way, something remarkable can happen. Both the giver and the receiver are blessed. (Adapted from an address given by President Eyring at the dedication of the Sugarhouse Utah Welfare Services Center, June 2011, LDS.org)

Brothers and sisters, we each have a covenant responsibility to be sensitive to the needs of others and serve as the Savior did—to reach out, bless, and uplift those around us.  (“Waiting on the Road to Damascus,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 76)

Often, the answer to our prayer does not come while we’re on our knees but while we’re on our feet serving the Lord and serving those around us.  (“Waiting on the Road to Damascus,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 76)

Selfless acts of service and consecration refine our spirits, remove the scales from our spiritual eyes, and open the windows of heaven. By becoming the answer to someone’s prayer, we often find the answer to our own.(“Waiting on the Road to Damascus,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 76)

Discuss
How can serving others open the windows of heaven in your life?

Activity

Step 1: As a group, think of someone who needs help.

Step 2: Discuss the talents, contacts, and resources you have to offer.

Step 3: Make a plan to serve that person. For example, you could:

- Perform a service project in your community.

- Prepare your family history using the booklet My Family: Stories That Bring Us Together. Then go to the temple and perform sacred ordinances for family members who have died.    

- Help someone on his or her path to self-reliance. or challenge.
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Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Act on the plan you made to serve someone.

Share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

“Commitment is an essential part of [change]. It is the act of obligating oneself to a course of action and then diligently following through on that decision. When people are genuinely committed, they have real intent, meaning that they fully intend to do what they have committed to do. They make an unwavering and earnest decision to change” (Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service [2004], 195).

Activity (40 minutes)

Sharing your self-reliance plan with others helps you be more committed to following through on your plan.

Step 1: Choose a timekeeper—someone who helps the presentations and feedback stay on track. Give three minutes for each presentation. The timekeeper lets the presenter know when he or she has one minute left and then 30 seconds left.

Step 2: Decide on the order of presentations.

Step 3: Take turns presenting (in three minutes or less) and giving feedback (in two minutes or less).The following tips might be helpful as you give your presentation and as you give each other feedback.
Education for Better Work Line Art

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‍
Questions group members might ask the presenter:    

1. Are you excited to get the job you chose? Will it be a good fit for you?    

2. Did you find out if people are getting good jobs after their training?    

3. Are you finding ways to pay for your education without taking a student loan?    

4. Who or what organization has been your best resource to find answers to your questions?\
‍

“Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good" (D&C 90:24)

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
Why is time one of Gods greatest gifts?

“The Gift of Time”

Discuss
What did you learn from sister Benkosi?

“For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors.” Alma 34:32

Activity

Step 1: With a partner, read the five steps you can take each day to use your time well.

Step 2: On a separate piece of paper, list your tasks. These should be important tasks for your work, for school, for church, or for family service—not just daily chores. Pray about and prioritize your list.

Step 3: Tomorrow you should set goals, act, and report how you’ve used your time.
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Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Practice these steps every day to use your time more wisely. Report each night to Heavenly Father in your prayers.

Share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Practice these steps every day to use your time more wisely. Report each night to Heavenly Father in your prayers.

Share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

“Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself … and not … be acted upon” (2 Nephi 2:16, 26)

Discuss
Why is it important that you act for yourself on your education plan?

Successful learners take control of their education. They are:    

- Active
- Responsible
- Disciplined

Activity
Step 1: Rate yourself on the following. Circle the item that best describes you.

Step 2: Turn to your action partner and tell him or her what you would like to improve about your ability to be active, responsible, and disciplined in your education.

Step 3: Read aloud the following sentences in bold type. If you agree with this statement, sign your name below. Show your signature to your action partner. This week, show this page and your signature to a family member or friend.

“I am in charge of my education. Nobody else can be educated for me. It is up to me to be active, responsible, and disciplined in my education.”

My signature____________

Date_______________
‍

Saying you will be active, responsible, and disciplined is one thing, but doing it is another. To be successful, you need to (1) prioritize, (2) overcome procrastination, and (3) overcome distractions.

Prioritize    

You can’t do everything. As you are working on your education, tasks related to your education should have a high priority.    

For example, you want to visit a friend you haven’t seen for a while (good), but you really need to study for a test tomorrow (better).

To prioritize the things you need to do:

- Make a list of the things you need or want to do.        
- Rewrite the list with the best things at the top, followed by the better things and then the good things.    

Sometimes you will need to choose between what is most important and what is most urgent. Sometimes tasks become urgent because you procrastinated doing them. Other times, tasks become urgent because other people expect you to do them now.    For example, you need to study for a test that is in two weeks (important), but you also need to enroll in a class before the application deadline tomorrow (urgent).

Activity

Consider Rachel’s situation: She has to pay fees for school by tomorrow. She needs to drive her kids to their sports practice. She also has to pay rent, choose her classes, and start applying for grants and scholarships.

Step 1: As a group, list everything Rachel has to do in the “To-do’s” column of the following table.

Step 2: Discuss the good, better, and best of each of Rachel’s to-do’s for today.

Step 3: Rewrite the to-do list in the “Priorities” column in the order you think is best.
Education for Better Work Line Art

Step 4: Now, on your own, think of some things you need to do. Write your to-do’s on the left and then prioritize

Overcome Procrastination

Formal education (just like your job) has deadlines. Papers are due when papers are due; projects have firm completion dates. Ignoring deadlines will affect your grade, your attitude, other students, and your successful completion of a program. Assignments become urgent if you procrastinate them until the deadline.

Activity

Step 1: Underline some things Rachel does that have helped her overcome procrastination.    

Rachel realized that she tends to procrastinate. She described how she is overcoming that habit. “I started to wake up earlier in the morning. The first thing I do is create my to-do list for the day. If something seems hard to do, I put that as the first thing to do. I also think about how long each of the tasks is going to take and then set a time of the day to complete each task.    “If I am studying, I study for 40 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. After finishing my tasks, I take 10 minutes to do something I enjoy.    “At times I have a hard time focusing, or I may not have enough energy to do a task. Whenever that happens, I move to another task on my list that takes less energy and focus. I return to the other task when I have more energy and focus. I keep moving and get things done. It feels good to check things off my list.”

Step 2: As a group, discuss what helps you overcome procrastination.

Overcome Distractions    

Reaching your education goals takes hard work, patience, and focus. Distractions and problems can take you off your path to self-reliance. Knowing how you might get distracted, or being aware of other problems you may face, will help you plan ways to overcome these obstacles and stay on task.

Example  

Meet Afu, age 23. He comes from a very poor rural family. His mission opened his eyes to the possibilities of making a better living and providing for his family. He wants to move to the city to receive training as an electrician, but his parents want him to stay at home and work with them in farming as generations of the family have done.

Activity

‍Step 1: Take turns reading these three examples.

Rachel wrote:

Stefano wrote:

Afu wrote:

Step 2: List some distractions or problems that you might face in your education. Decide now what you will do about them. You may want to counsel with your group members.

Some problems may come up unexpectedly. Nobody plans on getting sick or losing a job. Faith and trust in our Heavenly Father and support from family and friends can help you through those challenges.

What do you do when you face difficult and surprising challenges?

Many people don’t finish their education. There are often problems, difficult situations, and other people that could pull you off track.

In many areas of the world, parents will say to their children, “Quit school. Come home to work in the fields. Our family cannot survive without you here working.” That is exactly the problem Afu faced.

Some people quit school because a family member gets sick or dies, or the family suffers some other hardship.

Some people quit school because they spent their money on unnecessary things and no longer have enough money for school.

Some people don’t finish their training because a friend says, “I have an incredible business opportunity for you. You will make a lot more money doing this than with your training.” The opportunity turns out to be a dead end. Stefano faced this temptation twice, and both times the friends lost more money than they earned. He was glad he didn’t get involved.

Some people don’t finish their education because they get discouraged and say to themselves, “This is harder, takes longer, and is more expensive than I thought. I guess school is not for me.”

Good Things to Come

One method to help you stay on track includes:  

- Visualizing your life and how you will feel when you are self-reliant.    
- Anticipating who or what would cause you to quit.    
- Preparing what you will say or do to stay on track.

Look at the following bridge. Think about what it will be like after you cross the bridge. Think about how it will feel to be more self-reliant.

Example

The following examples are of people who thought about what could cause them to quit school and what they would do.

Rachel wrote:

ArtAfu wrote:

Activity

Now it's your turn. Write the following

“There is nothing good unless you do it” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “He Will Place You on His Shoulders and Carry You Home,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 103, quoting Erich Kästner)

“Shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. … Courage, … and on, on to the victory!”  (D&C 128:22).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
When has Heavenly Father answered my prayers?

“Creating Lift”

When the force that is pushing us heavenward is greater than the temptations and distress that drag us downward, we can ascend and soar into the realm of the Spirit. (See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Prayer and the Blue Horizon,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2009, 5–6)

Prayer is one of the principles of the gospel that provides lift. Prayer has the power to elevate us from our worldly cares. Prayer can lift us up through clouds of despair or darkness into a bright and clear horizon. (See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Prayer and the Blue Horizon,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2009, 5–6)

One of the greatest blessings and privileges and opportunities we have as children of our Heavenly Father is that we can communicate with Him through prayer. We can speak to Him of our life experiences, trials, and blessings. We can listen for and receive celestial guidance from the Holy Spirit at any time and at any place. (See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Prayer and the Blue Horizon,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2009, 5–6)

Discuss
Why is listening an essential skill? How can careful listening help us in our work?

Discuss
How can we recognize answers to our prayers? Why is listening an essential part of prayer?

Activity

Step 1: As a group, read the steps below and briefly discuss them.

‍Step 2: Ask one or two members of the group to tell the others about a challenge or question they have. Everyone else should try to listen, following these steps.

Step 3: When finished, ask the group members who spoke how they felt when the group really tried to listen.

Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Pray individually and as a family each morning and night. Spend time after each prayer reverently listening for guidance.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Employers value certificates, degrees, or other proof that you are qualified to do certain jobs. You can earn these by fulfilling the program requirements of a school or training program. These requirements include things like classes, assignments, and tests.

To help you meet the program requirements, you should
(1) ask about the requirements,
(2) take notes, and
(3) actively participate in courses and programs.

Ask about the Requirements

Schools and training programs create requirements for each degree, certificate, class, and assignment. Successful learners make sure they understand the requirements.

Here are some examples of questions you might ask to find out what will be required of you:
-  How can I succeed in your class?
-  What do you want me to learn and do?When are assignments due?
-  How will you evaluate my performance?

Take Notes

One way to remember the requirements is to take notes. Review those notes later to better remember what you saw, heard, or read in the class.

When taking notes on an assignment, make sure you know:
-  What to do
-  How to do it
-  When it is due.

The following may help you take good notes on assignments:

-  Be engaged and alert, and have a positive attitude
-  Don’t try to write every word that is said; focus on the main messages and the most important information
-  Use abbreviations; if helpful, draw pictures
-  Leave space to add clarifications later
-  Keep notes organized.

Activity

For this activity, imagine you are in Juan’s welding class taking notes on an assignment.

Step 1: Have one group member read the paragraph below. Others in the group should take notes below.



Welding Assignment Instructions

Instructor

‍“The welding project is due on Monday. Get the metal you need for the project from bin number 7. Weld two pieces together at 45 degrees. I want you to grind the welds clean. Remember, the better your weld is, the less you’ll have to grind. Make sure to wear all of your safety gear. I saw a couple of you the other day without some of it. I will dock you points if you aren’t wearing all of your safety gear.”


Step 2: Have the rest of the group ask questions about the assignment and take more notes (the person reading the assignment should make up answers).

Step 3: Compare your notes with those of other group members.Step 4: As a group, talk about the ways of taking notes that are the most effective for you.

Actively Participate

Another way to understand the requirements and learn the subject of the class is to actively participate. Active participation will help you get the most out of class. Some suggestions are listed below:

-  Pay attention
-  Sit in the front if possible
-  Ask and answer questions
-  Find and work with students who are committed to learning (sit by them, share ideas, meet, ask questions, and help each other)
-  Talk to the instructor (during and after class) to further understand requirements and the concepts you are learning.

Some people learn best by seeing, some by hearing, some by doing, and some in other ways. Some learn best alone and others with groups of people. Successful students use the learning style that works best for them as much as they can.

Activity

Step 1: Read the situation below and choose the one(s) you best identify with.

If a teacher had a new device you knew nothing about, would you want to:See it or read about it? If yes, you might learn best by seeing.Listen to the teacher tell you about it? If yes, you might learn best by hearing.Touch it, push the buttons, or take it apart to learn how it works? If yes, you might learn best by doing.

Step 2: Talk with the person next to you about how you learn best.

Instructors won’t necessarily teach in a way that best fits your learning style. You may need to adapt your approach to learning to best fit the situation.

Example

Juan prefers a hands-on approach. He likes to do things. He doesn’t like to sit in class and listen to a teacher talk. He doesn’t like to read textbooks. But lectures are a part of his schooling, and reading is required to pass the tests. He can’t just ignore the requirements because they don’t fit his learning style. He decides to listen as best he can, read as much as he can, and then quickly go try things out after class so he can get some hands-on learning.

Arlene discovered that she learns more when she discusses ideas with others. She decides to study regularly with others.

Activity
‍
How would you best use your learning style in different learning situations?

‍Step 1: Think of your preferred learning style.

Step 2: Turn to another group member and discuss how you can adapt to the following situations:
-  What could you do to learn from a group discussion?
-  What could you do to learn from a lecture?
-  What could you do to memorize a list of words?

‍Step 3: Switch roles and repeat steps 1 and 2.

As you work on your education, you will experience stress. It is part of life and part of your education. Stress in your education can come from the following sources and many others:
‍
-  Not understanding what is expected
-  Not being prepared
-  Not finishing assignments on time
-  Fear of failing a test
-  Fear of speaking in front of others
-  Too many things to do
-  Working with other people

As you move forward with faith, the Lord will bless you with strength and ability. You can’t eliminate stress from your education, but you can manage it. So pay attention to stress signals and find ways to adjust to or manage stress. Some suggestions are listed below:

-  Reconsider your expectations
-  Let go of what you cannot control
-  Focus on what you do well
-  Avoid comparing yourself to others
-  ExerciseServe others
-  Rest
-  Refocus on gratitude
-  Break down big or difficult tasks into smaller pieces
-  Take one small step forward now

Activity

Consider ways to manage your stress. Take a few minutes to privately ponder and write down answers to the following questions.

‍Step 1: What stresses am I facing?

Step 2: Choose one way of managing stress that you would like to try. Complete the following sentence:“
When I feel stressed about ____________

,I will______________ .”

Step 3: Sometime today, rewrite this sentence on another piece of paper. Put it on your wall, in your pocket, or in another place where it can help you remember how you will manage stress.

“It is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions“ (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Of Things That Matter Most,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 19).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
Why does Heavenly Father allow us to face problems and challenges?

“A Bigger Truck”

Discuss
What is the real problem in this story? What are some options for the two men?

“Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.“But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.“But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong.”  (D&C 9:7–9)

“The Lord expects us to help solve our own problems. … We are thinking, reasoning human beings. We have the ability to identify our needs, to plan, to set goals, and to solve our problems.”  (Robert D. Hales, “Every Good Gift,” New Era, Aug. 1983, 8, 9)

Activity

Step 1: Choose a partner, and read the steps below.

‍

Step 2: Choose a problem you are facing and write it below.

Step 3: Apply each step to your problem.Identify:Study options:Decide and act:
‍

“And now, if the Lord has such great power, and has wrought so many miracles among the children of men, how is it that he cannot instruct me, that I should build a ship?”  1 Nephi 17:51

“Now I, Nephi, did not work the timbers after the manner which was learned by men, neither did I build the ship after the manner of men; but I did build it after the manner which the Lord had shown unto me; wherefore, it was not after the manner of men.“And I, Nephi, did go into the mount oft, and I did pray oft unto the Lord; wherefore the Lord showed unto me great things.”  1 Nephi 18:2–3

Discuss

How was Nephi able to build a ship?

Commit

Commit to do the following actions during the week.   

Act on the steps you discussed in the activity to begin solving your problem. Remember, don’t give up. It takes time to solve problems and make changes.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Setting consistent study times will help you succeed in your education or training program. Find clean, quiet, well-lit places to study where you can study without becoming distracted.

“Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion” (D&C 132:8)

Observing the Sabbath day will increase your faith and improve your learning. Avoid doing schoolwork on the Sabbath.

Activity

Choose places and times to study regularly.

Step 1: Write your two best places to study:

Step 2: Write your best times to study:

Step 3: List any problems or distractions that might keep you from studying at the places and times you listed above.
Education for Better Work Line Art

4: Discuss with a partner how you can solve these issues. Consider the problem-solving steps you discussed in today’s My Foundation principle.
‍

Because studying takes time, you will have less time to do other things. You will have to say “no” to some activities to be able to do well in your studies

Scheduled reviews:
‍
Read and recall information repeatedly over an extended period of time. For example:
‍

Flash cards:

Write ideas, quotes, data, formulas, and thoughts on index cards, and then review them regularly. For example, Afu wrote electrical formulas on cards to help him remember them. He goes through his cards many times a day. Here is an example of how Afu uses his cards: he writes a study term on the front of the card and the formula on the back, like this:

Connect what you learn to something you already know:

Connect something unfamiliar with something you already know. For example, Stefano was studying computer terms. He didn’t know what an algorithm was. He read that it is a “process or set of rules to be followed, especially by computers.” Stefano likes to cook, and a computer using an algorithm reminded him of someone following a recipe. That helped him remember.

Teach what you learn:

Share what you are learning with someone. This will give you the chance to better understand and remember the new information. At his parents’ house one weekend, Afu taught his father how to fix a long-broken light fixture.

Apply what you learn:

Applying in your life what you are learning helps you remember it. If you learn a new word, use it several times. If you learn how to fix a motor, go fix a motor as soon as you can. When a neighbor told Rachel of a legal problem she didn’t understand, Rachel was able to explain it based on something she had just learned that week.

Reading is important to your education. Improving your reading skills will help you better understand and remember the things you are learning.

Activity

Step 1: Read the following quote below from President Henry B. Eyring. While reading, highlight the points that you feel are most important, make notes in the margins, or do other things that help you understand.

“Conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ brings a desire to learn. … It is the natural fruit of living the gospel of Jesus Christ. …

“The Lord and His Church have always encouraged education to increase our ability to serve Him and [His] children. For each of us, whatever our talents, He has service for us to give. And to do it well always involves learning, not once or for a limited time, but continually.

“… Through prayer, fasting, and hard work, … we can expect His grace to attend us. … [This] means that we will learn more rapidly and grow in skill beyond what we could do only with our unaided natural abilities.

“Our first priority should go to spiritual learning. … Remember, you are interested in education, not just for mortal life but for eternal life. When you see that reality clearly, you will put spiritual learning first and yet not [ignore] the secular learning. In fact, you will work harder at your secular learning than you would without that spiritual vision” (“Real-Life Learning,” New Era, Apr. 2009, 2–4, 5).
‍

Activity continued

‍Step 2: Summarize what you feel that President Eyring was teaching:

Step 3: Get with other people in the group and see how they marked up this text to improve their reading skills.

Activity
What are some other ways you can improve your reading skills?

Good writing is also important to your education

When writing, make sure to match your style to the instructor’s expectations. There are three main styles of writing assignments.  The first is:

- Informative writing:
Organize information and make complex ideas easy to understand. For example, Stefano was given an informative writing assignment on food. He wrote about the history of his favorite food and some interesting facts about it.  

The second main style of writing assignments is:

- Creative Writing:
Write your own ideas, original thoughts, and things that people would find interesting. Stefano’s next assignment was to do creative writing about food. Stefano wrote about the flavor, texture, and color of his favorite food in a way that was fun and interesting.

The third main style of writing assignments is:

- Persuasive Writing:
Write in a way that motivates, convinces, or persuades someone to do something or to think a certain way. To do this effectively, you need to know facts and opposing viewpoints and be able to support your argument. Stefano suggested in his persuasive writing that every tourist should try his favorite food because of its peculiar flavor and its cultural value.
‍

Activity

Now it’s your turn to try a writing assignment.

Step 1: Think of a food you like.

Step 2: Choose one of the writing styles (informative, creative, or persuasive) and take two or three minutes to write about the food you chose in step 1.

Step 3: Share your sentences with another group member.

Use your time and energy wisely to complete assignments. Avoid procrastination.

“Reap while the day lasts” (D&C 6:3)

Activity

How well do you complete assignments?

Circle the word that best describes how often you do these things:
‍

When you finish an assignment, you feel a sense of accomplishment.

Do the hard thing first. Do the project you least like to do first. Once you’ve dealt with the most difficult or least favorite to-do item, the rest will usually seem easier.

Block out your time. Set a realistic amount of time to do specific tasks. If you don’t have a set amount of time, you will likely waste time.

Take short, regular breaks. Your mind will be refreshed and you will be better able to focus after a break. Short, regular breaks improve your learning.

Adapt. When you are tired, do the tasks that take less thinking.

Reward yourself. If you complete your assignment by a certain time, reward yourself with something you like (a treat, time to do something you enjoy, and so on).

Tests are often used to show how well you have learned something.

Here are some ways you can become a better test-taker:

Before the test:    
- Regularly study the material you will be tested on.    
- Get enough sleep.    
- Eat nutritious food and drink enough water.    
- Pray before studying and before taking the test.    
- Make sure you have items needed for the test (pencil, calculator, tools, and so forth).

During the test:
- Trust what you know.
- Be honest. Don’t cheat.
- Manage your time; as you begin each question or section, decide how much time you can spend on it.
- Carefully read and reread instructions: what is really being asked?
- Complete the easiest questions first to gain confidence; then go back to the others.

Discuss
What have you done to prepare for and take tests effectively?

“The learning process is endless. We must read, we must observe, we must [take in], and we must ponder that to which we expose our minds. I believe in the evolution of the mind, the heart, and the soul of humanity. I believe in improvement. I believe in growth” (Gordon B. Hinckley, Standing for Something [2000], 62).

“If you do your part to gain knowledge, the Holy Ghost can enlighten your mind. As you strive to keep yourself worthy, the Holy Ghost will give direction and added light to your learning”  (Mary N. Cook, “Seek Learning: You Have a Work to Do,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2012, 121).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
Why does the Lord love those with “integrity of heart”?

“What Shall a Man Give in Exchange for His Soul?”

Discuss
What does it mean to have integrity?
What are some small ways people give away their souls to get things in this life?

“We believe in being honest.”  Articles of Faith 1:13

“Till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.” Job 27:5

Activity

On your own, rate yourself in the following areas.

Put a Number in Front of Each Item to Show How Often You Act This Way

1 = never, 2 = sometimes, 3 = often, 4 = always

‍___1. I keep all my promises, commitments, and covenants.

___2. I am completely truthful in things I say and in the records I keep.

___3. I do not exaggerate to make things appear better than they are.

___4. I return everything I borrow and do not take things that do not belong to me.

___5. I am completely faithful to my spouse in my words and actions.

___6. I never cheat, even when I know I won’t be caught.

___7. When I find something that isn’t mine, I return it to the owner.

___8. I always pay back money I borrow.

“And I would that ye should remember, that whosoever among you borroweth of his neighbor should return the thing that he borroweth, according as he doth agree, or else thou shalt commit sin; and perhaps thou shalt cause thy neighbor to commit sin also.”  Mosiah 4:28

“Integrity means always doing what is right and good, regardless of the immediate consequences. It means being righteous from the very depth of our soul, not only in our actions but, more importantly, in our thoughts and in our hearts. … A little lying, a little cheating, or taking a little unfair advantage are not acceptable to the Lord. … The consummate reward of integrity is the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, … [who will] guide us in all we do.”  Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Personal Integrity,” Ensign, May 1990, 30, 32, 33

Commit

Commit to improve one of the eight areas you rated above.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Heavenly Father places people in our lives who care about us and who can strengthen us. Some mentors may have a lot of experience doing what you want to do and can answer your questions. Other mentors may be willing to spend time encouraging you to make changes in your life and hold you accountable to progress.

Elder Robert D. Hales taught, “Prayerfully select mentors who have your spiritual well-being at heart”  (“Meeting the Challenges of Today’s World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 46).

Activity

Step 1: Look at your self-reliance plan and think about the kind of help you need.

Step 2: Write the names of three people who could help you to act on your plan.

Step 3: Write when and how you will meet to counsel together about your plan.
‍

Continue to seek out mentors. Look for people who are successful doing what you want to do. Watch what they do and the characteristics that make them successful. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions, and be open to learning from them. Always express gratitude for a mentor’s help. Pray to know how you can develop and strengthen these special relationships, and put into practice what you learn.

Groups give us the opportunity to share our ideas and learn from the experiences and knowledge of others.

The same principles that make this self-reliance group successful can be applied to your future study groups or similar groups, such as work teams and Church councils.

The same principles that make this self-reliance group successful can be applied to your future study groups or similar groups, such as work teams and Church councils. To help make groups effective, do the following:

- Find the best students to work with—especially those who are as committed as you are.

- Treat everyone as equal participants.

- Speak respectfully to others. Everyone should feel safe sharing his or her ideas.

- Set a regular time to study together.

- Agree on a specific goal at the beginning.

- End each study session by making commitments: “What will each of you do and when will you have it done?”

- Have fun together but stay focused.

- Be prepared and do your part. Share what you know and learn all you can from others.

- If you are working on a project together, know the deadline and assign smaller portions to finish before the deadline.

In your training you will experience some failures. It could be a failed test, a missed assignment, or a bad grade in a class.

Failure is a part of learning. The best learners pick themselves up after each failure.

Learning how to do this is more important than never making any mistakes, which is not realistic.

There are many ways to react to failure. Some negative reactions include giving up, beating yourself up for failing, or doing nothing because you are afraid to fail again.

There are also positive ways to respond to failure. These include:

- Seeking counsel from the Lord.

- Learning what caused the failure and avoiding that.

- Counseling with your mentor.

- Trying another way to achieve the purpose or goal.

- Reevaluating if this action is taking you in the direction you want to go, then changing course if necessary.

Discussion
What have you learned from a failure or disappointment in your life?

“No one likes to fail. And we particularly don’t like it when others—especially those we love—see us fail. We all want to be respected and esteemed. We want to be champions. But we mortals do not become champions without effort and discipline or without making mistakes.“

… Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble but by the number of times we rise up, dust ourselves off, and move forward”  (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “You Can Do It Now!” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 55).

Discussion
What will you do the next time you experience failure?

At some point during your training, you may feel like your education path or the job you are seeking is not right for you. You may think you should change direction. If these feelings arise, be careful and thoughtful about making such a change.

When thinking about changing direction, you should ask yourself, “Would the new direction really be better for me?”

In the first six meetings of this self-reliance group, you thoroughly considered your options. You talked with many people and researched the job, the training it required, and how to pay for the training. You made decisions you felt good about.

You owe it to yourself to consider a change of direction as carefully as you chose your current direction.

If necessary, create a new self-reliance plan, and re-do the activities in chapters 1–6 to make your decisions.

How can you avoid impulsive decisions but also avoid overthinking and being indecisive?

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught: “I have absolute, certain knowledge, perfect knowledge, that God loves us. He is good. He is our Father, and He expects us to pray and trust and be believing and not give up and not panic and not retreat and not jump ship when something doesn’t seem to be going just right. We stay in. We keep working. We keep believing” (“Wrong Roads,” lds.org/media-library).

“Education is a gift from God,” taught Elder Dallin H. and Sister Kristen M. Oaks. “We may have to struggle to achieve our goals, but our struggles may yield as much growth as our learning. The strengths we develop in overcoming challenges will be with us in the eternities to come” (Dallin H Oaks “Learning and Latter-day Saints,” Ensign, Apr. 2009, 27).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________

Ponder
What are some of the things that matter most to you?

“Doing What Matters Most”

The tendency to focus on the insignificant at the expense of the profound happens not only to pilots but to everyone. We are all at risk. (Dieter F. Uchdorf, “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 59, 60)

Are your thoughts and heart focused on those short-lived fleeting things that matter only in the moment or on things that matter most?  (Dieter F. Uchdorf, “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 59, 60)

Discuss
What insignificant things distract us from progressing? How can gospel ordinances help us?

“The Lord will bless us as we attend to the sacred ordinance work of the temples. Blessings there will not be limited to our temple service. We will be blessed in all of our affairs. We will be eligible to have the Lord take an interest in our affairs both spiritual and temporal.”  Boyd K. Packer, The Holy Temple (1980), 182

Discuss
As we seek self-reliance, why is it important to be temple worthy?

Activity
Step 1: Read the quote by Elder Quentin L. Cook below and the following scriptures. Underline the promised blessings for those who worship in the temple.

“We would do well to study the 109th section of the Doctrine and Covenants and to follow President [Howard W.] Hunter’s admonition ‘to establish the temple of the Lord as the great symbol of [our] membership.’”  (Quentin L. Cook, “See Yourself in the Temple,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 99; quoting Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Howard W. Hunter (2015), 178)

“Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest” (D&C 84:20).

“And that they may grow up in thee, and receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost, and be organized according to thy laws, and be prepared to obtain every needful thing” (D&C 109:15).

“And when thy people transgress, any of them, they may speedily repent and return unto thee, and find favor in thy sight, and be restored to the blessings which thou hast ordained to be poured out upon those who shall reverence thee in thy house” (D&C 109:21).

“And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them” (D&C 109:22).

“We ask thee, Holy Father, … that no weapon formed against them shall prosper” (D&C 109:24–25).

Activity
Step 2: Individually ponder, “What do I need to change in my life to participate in temple ordinances more often?”

Commit

If you have a temple recommend, set a date to attend the temple.

If you don’t have a temple recommend, meet with your bishop or branch president to discuss how you can prepare to receive your temple ordinances.

Commit to share what you’ve learned today about work and perseverance with your family and friends.

Discuss
If you were a hiring manager, which of these three people would you hire? Why?

The more you prepare for the job you want, the more your chances improve to get the job.

Gain as much work experience in your field as you can while going to school.

Discuss
What work experience can you get while going to school?

Your purpose in gaining an education is to find better work.

As soon as you begin your studies, begin studying job postings to become familiar with what employers are looking for. Plan your education to best meet those qualifications.

Activity
Determine the specific skills and knowledge you need to develop to qualify for the job you want.

Step 1: List the skills, knowledge, and experience you should have to help you get the type of job you are seeking. List at least three of them below.

Essential skills for a job as a/an            
1.____________________
2.____________________
3.____________________
4.____________________
5.____________________
‍
Step 2: What additional skills and knowledge will help you stand out as the clear choice for the job? Think of classes, student jobs, internships, student clubs, online or local communities, or other opportunities that could increase your chances of getting hired.

Additional skills, knowledge, or experience:    

1.____________________
2.____________________
3.____________________
4.____________________
5.____________________
     

Review from time to time the skills and knowledge you are developing, and compare them to what employers are looking for.

Keeping a record of your qualifications, accomplishments, and education will be of great help when applying for internships and jobs.

Keep a record of your work history and education, including dates. Be sure to include accomplishments, projects, awards, recognitions, and any other things that can demonstrate that you would be good at your chosen job.

Some employers ask to see examples of your writing, your art, your accomplishments, and other things you have done in your schooling. Keep a portfolio of examples so you have them ready when you are asked for them.

Some employers look at your participation on websites and forums to see how well you work with people and the quality of your contributions to discussions.

Many people search for work by looking only at job advertisements,

but most people find jobs through networking, or talking with people who can help them find organizations that need their skills.

Build your network constantly while you are going to school and afterward.

Get to know your instructors, people working in your field, and other class members. You never know who in your network will help you find the job you are looking for.

Networking is about relationships. Find ways to connect with others and build these relationships.

Activity
Step 1: Read Rachel’s example below.

Rachel was interested in working at Valley Law. From her paralegal class, she met April Chang, who worked at Valley Law. Rachel impressed April with her quick understanding of the material and her dedication to hard work. Rachel made contact with John (a partner at the firm) through April, and Rachel got an interview.

Step 2: Think of an organization you would like to work for. Do you know someone who could connect or introduce you to a decision maker there? Fill in the blanks below now or during the week.

Step 3: During the week, contact your friend and ask for an introduction.

If you have access to online social networks, take time this week to search those networks for connections to the companies you are interested in. Some social networking programs are created specifically to help you connect to companies.

Even after going through this exercise, you may not find any personal connections to the companies you are interested in. That’s all right. Start getting to know as many people as you can early on in your schooling so your network expands and opens you up to more opportunities.

If you borrow money for school, it is your responsibility to pay it back.

“[Recipients] will repay the money, and when they do so, they will enjoy a wonderful sense of freedom because they have improved their lives. … They can hold their heads high in a spirit of independence” (Gordon B. Hincley “The Perpetual Education Fund,” Ensign, May 2001, 53)

Not paying back a loan is stealing money, but some people try to justify themselves because:

- They feel entitled to the money and think it doesn’t matter if they pay it back.
- They don’t get a job, or their job pays very little.
- They spend money on other things rather than meeting their obligation to pay the loan.

You may have times when it is difficult for you to pay off your loan.

Example
When Stefano quit school several years ago, he had to start making payments of 100 per month on his student loan. He didn’t have enough money to make the full payment. He called the loan company and asked if he could pay 50 per month until he found a job. They said yes. He paid 50 for a couple of months, and then he started paying 100 again after he found a job.

Discuss
What are some other ways you could continue to pay back your loan even during difficult times?

Successful people continually seek learning. The job market changes quickly; to become self-reliant, you need to constantly prepare for better job opportunities. This means crossing the learning bridge many times in your life.

“Be adaptable in your work. … We should be willing to learn new, marketable skills. There are a great many [people] who have found new joy and satisfaction in having a second career wholly unrelated to the work for which they were originally trained. … Being flexible in our approach to our work opportunities may just make it possible to keep afloat financially” (James E. Faust “The Blessings We Receive as We Meet the Challenges of Economic Stress,” Ensign, Nov. 1982, 90).TBFO

Discuss
How can you prepare and adapt to the changing job market?

When you near the completion of your training, enroll in the self-reliance group Find a Better Job to help you get the job you are seeking.

You can also “be the bridge” by mentoring others. Mentor them by doing the following:

‍1. Love them. Listen to what they want to do. Be patient if their progress is slow or if they experience failure.

2. Ask questions. Questions can help them think about the future, understand their challenges, and find their own solutions.

‍3. Encourage them. Even when it’s difficult, encourage your friends to exercise faith and keep working. Be available to meet with them and listen as they report on their progress.

4. Share these principles and strategies of self-reliance with your friends, your children, and other Latter-day Saints.

“Ours is the responsibility to … be worthy of all the glorious blessings our Father in Heaven has in store for us—and for others through us.“

… Remember who you are and what God expects you to become. You are a child of promise” (Thomas S. Monson“A Sacred Trust,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 85).

“Seek learning even by study and also by faith; organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God” (D&C 109:7–8).

What are the most meaningful things I learned today?  (Write it down) ____________________________

What will I do as a result of what I learned today?  (Write it Down) _______________________________