Scoutmaster Minute – New Year 2013

scoutmaster

Scouts,

Now that the Holiday’s are over and I’ve just awoken from a 2-week

hibernation it’s time to get focused on Scouting and look ahead to a whole year of new opportuities!

There is a fundamental change that happens when a boy leaves Cub Scouts and bridges into Boy Scouts. New Boy Scouts learn early-on that the responsibility of advancement and the pace of earning merit badges now rests squarely on their own shoulders.

Mom and Dad aren’t expected to carry that burden once the boy enters the big leagues.

With summer camp fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to to set goals. Careful planning, smart goal-setting and constant encouragement are essential components of goal achievement.

Scouts who are disciplined to set specific, measurable and realistic goals give themselves the best chance of steadily earning merit badges and rank advancement on the path to Eagle Scout.

Please, Please, Please don’t wait for the last minute!
Goal-setting is not solely a tool for earning merit badges and rank advancement. Scouts can set a wide variety of goals that will help them in their journey. While goals are very personal and individual, here are ideas for you to consider as you learn this life-long skill:

Short-term goals (achieve in 30 days or less)

  1.     Plan a month’s worth of Good Turns- 30-days makes a habit for this core value in Scouting
  2.     Learn two new knots- this essential skill in Scouting takes practice
  3.     Learn about the Troop leadership positions and decide which one is best for you
  4.     Organize and re-stock your first-aid kit
  5.     Teach a younger scout how to correctly fold a flag, then practice, practice, practice

Longer-term goals (achieve in 3-6 months)

  1. Help a younger scout earn 1 merit badge and 1 rank advancement
  2. Complete any partial merit badge you have
  3. Master orienteering- Map and compass mastery can be intimidating, yet it’s a vital survival skill
  4. Look ahead to your next rank, set a date and make a plan to achieve it
  5. Earn enough money in your Scout Bucks account to buy a scout-related item, just for you
  6. Earn a certification- i.e., first aid, CPR, BSA lifeguard
  7. Earn an Eagle-required Merit Badge

The number of goals you set is as important as the quality or complexity of the goals.Setting  too many goals can lead to frustration when they aren’t all met. This may lead to an urge to   give up all together.

If this all sounds like too much for you, start by setting one near-term and one longer-term goal.

The important thing is to get your mind and your body in motion… NOW!!! 

Looking forward to a great 2013!
Your Scoutmaster,
Mr. Cat.