As the dust is somewhat settling to the start of my 14th school year I am starting to find a bit more time to read and reflect and truly start thinking about what #SAVMP. To say there was a big cloud of dust to start the year would be fairly accurate. But, like all educators, we strive to be resilient daily but I found this year to be particularly hard in balancing life.
In PA we are required to take Act 45 classes (Principal PD-PILS) with other local principals. During class last week (and every class so far) these has been some very worthwhile dialogue and I have been able to utilize many of the teachings and share back with our faculty. One activity that hit home was when we were presented with 3 lists of leadership traits from 3 well-known leaders with varying leadership styles (I forget who they all were now but will find out and edit :).
Even though varying in styles, age, and practice, most characteristics overlapped between the
3, and during our breakout sessions most principals resonated with the most common themes of leadership such as serving others, making connections, building trust, communication, etc... HOWEVER one
principal who's district is going through major cuts and has had numerous major challenges so far this year was the only
one who chose "Duty to Self" as one that resonated. She shared her numerous
trials and tribulations that has effected her this year and said if she didn't
have grounded her in this life perspective, she didn't know how she would be able to get up each morning.
It is easy for us to forget about ourselves while trying to complete our job to the best of our ability, but if we don't take care of ourself first, how are we going to be able to take care of others?
