As leaders, what we do has far more significant of an impact than the words we speak. Our words will always matter, but what matters, even more, is that our actions and words align for good. We all know that people can sense right away when there is alignment, or not.
Here is a challenge for you: Think of any triumphant moment of growth and joy your school. What happened? Who was apart of this experience? What impact did it have on those around you? After reflecting upon this moment, I can almost guarantee you that this success did not take place as a result of someone forcing you or that person to do anything. When we feel that we have to do something, rather than it is something we want to do willingly, it changes the way we approach it.
Brain research shows that too many choices can lead to fatigue and feelings of overwhelm, but without any choices at all, we lose our feelings of freedom, which can give us a sense of hopelessness.
Another way to say this is that if we feel we have no choice, our actions will represent our feelings– and that may look like we are just going through the motions. Who wants to feel that way? On the other hand, when those around us invite us into experiences around us, listen to our perspectives, and notice our talents, we will naturally have a different and more eager approach to be apart of the mission.
Is our leadership is forcing those around us to follow or inviting them into the journey ahead?
Education and life for that matter is a journey. We all have something to offer, and we all have a voice that needs to be heard from the mountaintops. As leaders, it is crucial that we regularly gain a pulse– Is your leadership is forcing those around us to follow or inviting them into the journey ahead? People covet the latter.
Go forth and lead,
