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And yet another bright spot....

Being a school administrator is not always what I thought it would be. Somewhere a few weeks back, I noticed a tweet that said being a Principal was near the top of the most stressful jobs in the nation. I believe it! Back when I first thought of making the jump from teacher to lead learner, I had big ideas. I was going to help more kids and do great things. Naively, I thought it looked manageable, easy, and fun. It is certainly not always manageable. It is rarely easy. Yet, it can sometimes be fun -- as long we keep our focus clear.

Like many other NY administrators this time of year, I am swamped by all the work I need to do. I worry about loose ends I could make tighter. I get frustrated about the current pace of some projects and my availability for others. If I am not careful, I might easily slide into a negative state mind.

But I don't. I am really good at venting for a few minutes and getting over it. I can find humor in almost anything. I try to employ a growth mindset in my work as best as I can. I am also incredibly lucky to have nurtured an amazing group of colleagues that I can call on for advice, laughter and even constructive criticism when needed. Some of these are friends I have made through twitter.

I take some hits from others about twitter and having a "PLN". I posted recently I was tired of the social media jokes. Moments ago, I realized the jokes need not matter to me. I consider myself lucky to be connected to some of the finest, most dedicated professionals within NYS and beyond.

Peter makes me a better leader by modeling how to stand up for what is right. Vicki makes me a better leader by pushing me outside my comfort zone to try new ideas. Peter and Vicki were part of my core PLN which has now grown into a larger group of people (including Tim and Christina) who help refuel my desire to perform at my fullest capability as a leader. 

My outside school PLN combined with my inside school PLN are indeed bright spots for me.


Needed to take time tonight to put all that in print. I am one lucky, lead learner. 


Comments

  1. UnknownJanuary 29, 2014 at 9:35 PM

    It is my pleasure as well as being in your PLN. You are AWESOME!

    Vicki

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownJanuary 30, 2014 at 6:04 AM

      To think this all started through a book study...You rock!

      Delete

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