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Tessa Samuelsen
As we look ahead into the next century leaders will be those who empower others- Bill Gates
Leaders in education understand pressure. Leaders from all walks of life become leaders because of their ability to critically analyze each situation and make decisions under pressure. This is no different for leaders in the school system. After all, they are dealing with the world’s most precious commodity, children. Understanding how to juggle, put out fires, calm storms, engage learners, facilitate opportunities for growth, keep little humans alive and happy, all while communicating a vision and representing a community; this is the daily schedule for most school principals. Learning how to appropriately handle pressure and responding to the multiple needs of students, families, faculties, staff and district administration is essential to building a successful school community. Learning some simple tricks of the trade will help any administrator new or seasoned deal well under pressure.
Remember why you are leading.
Someone along the way hired you because they were confident you had the skills, discernment, and ability to lead well. They knew that you would lead with purpose, determination and that you had the ability to inspire others. You went through the interview process, you had to prove yourself suited for the job at hand and I am sure the competition was fierce.
Remember that interview. You know the one or many meetings where people drilled you on your organization, knowledge of curriculum, your vision and your leadership style, while you set in a chair under pressure and extremely nervous. You haven’t lost that ability to perform, trust me. You have been given the tools you need to handle these types of pressure cooker situations.
Keep confident, while staying humble. Wisdom is knowing that you may not always be the smartest person in the room. As a leader surround yourself with a team of people you can depend on for advice, wisdom, and support. This could be your front office staff, a vice-principal or a team of lead teachers. Before making big decisions under pressure consult others. Ask for their advice and come to each decision as a team. Remember you might not have the most experience, but in seeking advice from a trusted team you are displaying the most wisdom.
Stay organized and communicate well.
With everything coming at you from all directions how do you keep it together? Some principals take with them a note pad, some journal daily about the events of the day and document conversations and events, while others adorn their office, computers, books, and desk with post-it notes.
For me, organization comes from a “Smart Phone”. Not only does this device of super ability keep me on time and informed, but it also helps me communicate immediately what is on my mind. I can email two teachers, set an appointment on Google and document a great teaching moment with my smartphone all while on the way down the hall to the bathroom. If you feel you can not manage these little handheld devices that rule our world, ask questions, get apps and find a management system that works for you. Google and Apple both provide free training.
You can also gather information from new teachers, your school IT specialist or even your children, but become familiar with the very expensive tool you use daily to communicate. Your phone can remind you of your schedule, send out on the go emails, document events, conversations, and compile a to-do list, all in an instant.
One thing that has grown into a very important part of my organization is the use of my iPhone.
Here are a few very easy ideas for using your smartphone in a smart way.
Sync all your calendars. In a few taps, you can know your schedule and can rattle off any open appointment times throughout the day. You may not have time to meet with everyone that pulls you aside for a conversation. This way you can politely tell them that you are on your way to another appointment or situation, but it is important to you to talk with them. Schedule a new meeting time right there on the spot.
Use Siri wisely. Yes, she can tell you the latest joke, but she can also set alarms and reminders to help you stay on schedule. Just say, “Siri, set a reminder to meet with Mrs. Smith after school today”. Siri can also put phone numbers in your contacts and add meetings to your calendar. Just talk to her, she is eager to help.
Take pictures of things. Take pictures of students, messy hallways, great bulletin boards and more. Then set a reminder to go back and look at your pictures at the end of the day. This will help you remember to email parents, praise teachers or follow-up with students.
Pause and ask God for help
Remember we talked about surrounding yourself with a wise and powerful team. Well, it doesn’t get any better than having God on that team. Now I would normally suggest, going back to your office digesting the information thrown at you and then making a decision, but as a school leader, you don’t always have that opportunity. Take it to God. Quickly ask for the strength you need to lead in the way He wants. You will be surprised by the decision capabilities that God can grant on the spot.
Keep in mind the following verses:
“But they who wait for the Lord shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint” Isaiah 40:31
“For God gave us the spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” 2 Timothy 1:7
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” Romans 15:13
Depending on the day your pressures may be few or they may be many. Remember that you have been chosen and that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Lead by example, even when under pressure.
Recipe for Leadership
When under pressure remember who you are, stay organized, communicate well and always turn to God.
A Recipe for Your InstaPot