T H E   C . O . C . O . A .   F O R M U L A 

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Challenge​
Options​
Consideration​
Option choice​
Action​
 
Challenge
            “Challenge” or problem as it is commonly referred to in its less productive form, is the first step in the formula.  This step is where one ascertains the nature of the problem or situation and its ramifications.​

Options
            “Options”, is the second step in the formula.  This step is where one takes an inventory of the various options he or she has at their disposal based on the nature of the challenge or problem.

Consideration
            “Consideration”, is the third step of the formula.  This step is where one takes into consideration which of the various options is the best course of action based on the nature of the challenge or problem and the desired outcome.

Option choice
            “Option choice”, is the fourth step of the formula.  This step is where one makes a decision on which of the options at their disposal is the best option based on the ramifications of the challenge and the desired outcome.​

Action
            “Action”, is the fifth and final step of the formula.  This step is where one physically carries out the culmination of the previous four steps having acknowledged the challenge, gathered the options, considered the options, arrived at the strongest course of action and acted on it.

This easy to remember acronym (C.O.C.O.A.) is posed to youth throughout the duration of the program and serves as a reacquiring theme in group discussions on how to make the best choices in game play and in life.

           
The C.O.C.O.A. formula instills the importance of slowing down and thinking things through as opposed to rushing into a situation and suffering the consequences of impetuous actions in both short and long-term decision making, while providing insight into the process of thought we all under take when faced with decisions.  This insight makes great gains in the strengthening of self-awareness, arguably a person’s greatest asset in navigating one’s course in life.  This concept is further reinforced with immediate results via the positive outcomes or wins.