If this first year as a principal has done anything, it has taught me that I still have a lot to learn about myself. Even though I'm 41, I'm still learning and growing every day. And, even though this journey has just begun, it has already taught me so many lessons.
I'm learning that I need time
One of the big lessons I've learned this year is that I really need time to process situations. I've always considered myself someone who thinks quick on her feet, but that isn't always the best route to take when dealing with students, staff and families. I have found that I often need to take the time to process the situation and seek advisement when appropriate.
I'm learning how to stay neutral
There are many times that I'm sure that the people around me wonder why I'm not showing more emotion in a situation. When a teacher or parent comes to me concerned, it's my job to figure out what is happening and how I can help. In order to do that, I've really got to stay out of the emotion of it all. This can be difficult because I'm a pretty emotional girl. However, that has come back to bite me a time or two!
I'm realizing that I need support, too
This job is pretty lonely. I'm a girl who loves working with teachers, but now there's a wall that has to be there. I don't like the wall. I'm not a person who wants a wall that separates me from those I work with. It goes against who I am in so many ways. Because of this, I've learned that I need to ask for support from family and friends. I've also been lucky enough to be able to reach out to the people on my Voxer groups to ask questions, share frustations, celebrate edu-wins, and laugh. My Voxer groups have been my life line every day on the way to and from work! (Looking at you PIA and MAPS)
I'm realizing that my attitude is everything
My days are never the same. I love that. Even though it can cause stress and strain, I love that my career path makes a difference to all those around me. With that being said, my attitude can make all the difference in the world. I strive to find my positivity so that every situation gets the best me I have to offer.
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I'm learning that I need time
One of the big lessons I've learned this year is that I really need time to process situations. I've always considered myself someone who thinks quick on her feet, but that isn't always the best route to take when dealing with students, staff and families. I have found that I often need to take the time to process the situation and seek advisement when appropriate.
I'm learning how to stay neutral
There are many times that I'm sure that the people around me wonder why I'm not showing more emotion in a situation. When a teacher or parent comes to me concerned, it's my job to figure out what is happening and how I can help. In order to do that, I've really got to stay out of the emotion of it all. This can be difficult because I'm a pretty emotional girl. However, that has come back to bite me a time or two!
I'm realizing that I need support, too
This job is pretty lonely. I'm a girl who loves working with teachers, but now there's a wall that has to be there. I don't like the wall. I'm not a person who wants a wall that separates me from those I work with. It goes against who I am in so many ways. Because of this, I've learned that I need to ask for support from family and friends. I've also been lucky enough to be able to reach out to the people on my Voxer groups to ask questions, share frustations, celebrate edu-wins, and laugh. My Voxer groups have been my life line every day on the way to and from work! (Looking at you PIA and MAPS)
I'm realizing that my attitude is everything
My days are never the same. I love that. Even though it can cause stress and strain, I love that my career path makes a difference to all those around me. With that being said, my attitude can make all the difference in the world. I strive to find my positivity so that every situation gets the best me I have to offer.