Mastering Oneself: Should Nadia intervene to calm Chloe or not?

By EpictetusCharacter Development2 min readGrade 7.7
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

A young athlete learns to control their emotions during a game, focusing on teamwork rather than frustration when things don’t go their way, demonstrating self-mastery and resilience.

The Choice

Should Nadia intervene to calm Chloe or not?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 7.7
Word Count
290 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Nadia and Chloe are both on their school's soccer team. During a crucial match, Nadia notices that Chloe, who is usually very calm, is getting frustrated because the referee made a questionable call against their team. Chloe starts to argue with the referee, risking a penalty for their team. Nadia knows that Chloe is an excellent player and that her frustration could affect her performance and the team's chances of winning. Nadia feels the pressure to intervene because she values Chloe's friendship and also wants the team to succeed. However, she also understands that Chloe needs to learn to manage her emotions on the field. Nadia Something has to give.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Self-Discipline
vs
Loyalty

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

Your Options

A

Calm Chloe down during the game.

B

Let Chloe manage her emotions alone.

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 might Chloe feel if Nadia intervenes?

  3. 3

    What are the possible outcomes of Nadia's choices?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Nadia in this situation?

  5. 5

    Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?

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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

self-control
friendship
sportsmanship
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.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Mastering Oneself — 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
Standard15 min

Mastering Oneself — 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