All Dilemmas

Self-Reflection in Actions: Bjorn must choose to sign up for the talent show or not.

By Epictetus•Relationships & Social Skills•2 min read•Grade 8.2
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Before going to a school event, a student thinks about what might happen, like meeting new people or facing unexpected situations, and prepares to stay calm and enjoy the experience no matter what happens.

The Choice

Bjorn must choose to sign up for the talent show or not.

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.165463150777555
Word Count
261 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Bjorn and Hana are best friends in middle school. One day, their teacher announces a talent show, encouraging everyone to participate. Hana, who is shy, hesitates to join, but Bjorn knows she has a beautiful singing voice. Bjorn wants to sign them both up for a duet, believing it will boost Hana's confidence. However, Hana is nervous about performing in front of the whole school and worries about making mistakes. Bjorn reflects on the situation, considering the importance of supporting Hana while respecting her feelings. He knows that pushing Hana might help her grow, but it could also make her uncomfortable. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) sign them up for the talent show, hoping Hana will overcome her fear, or (B) respect Hana's hesitation and not sign up.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Loyalty
vs
Self-Knowledge

Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.

Your Options

A

Sign up for the talent show

B

Respect Hana's hesitation

Questions for Reflection

Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.

  1. 1

    What would you do, and why?

  2. 2

    How does self-reflection play a role in Bjorn's decision?

  3. 3

    What are the possible consequences of each choice?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?

  5. 5

    Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Epictetus

Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.

Related Topics

loyalty
friendship
self-awareness
Portrait of Epictetus

Epictetusc. 50-c. 135

Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD) was a prominent Stoic philosopher who began life as a slave in Phrygia. After gaining freedom, he taught philosophy in Rome and later established a renowned school in Nicopolis. Though he wrote nothing, his teachings, recorded …

Stoicism
The Dichotomy of Control (what is in our power vs. what is not)
Prohairesis (Moral Choice/Volition) and the Correct Use of Impressions
Explore how Epictetus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Epictetus or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Self-Reflection in Actions — 5-10 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify the core ethical tension
  • -Make a quick, reasoned choice

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.Which option did you choose, and why?
  • 2.What would you give up with each choice?
participation
Classroom
Standard15 min

Self-Reflection in Actions — 15-20 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify competing values
  • -Articulate trade-offs

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.What would you lose by choosing each option?
  • 2.Is there a third path?
participation
Classroom