So much of this is communication, folks. We are never done growing our communication skills.
Trust through Community
Possibilities over Problems
In a world where everything seems to be competing for our attention, one thing needs our attention more than ever. People.
When it’s Too Much
It also helps to interrupt anxiety with gratitude. I am grateful that I can afford a full tank of gas. I am grateful that I can afford to fill our fridge with nourishing food. Gratitude reminds us to see and celebrate the good.
For Those with Sunday Scaries
All I know is that awareness can help. Lately, when I’m worried and anxious, I try to focus on the next best step I can take. Something about that makes me feel empowered without getting overwhelmed.
Carrying it By Yourself
Whatever it might be, we are all carrying something heavy. And many of us are carrying it by ourselves.
Free Will & Free Listening
Titles organize us, but they also get in the way of real human connection. It’s not your fault that people bring their own negative perceptions or trauma to your title. But how you respond is your responsibility, always.
Nourish the Blooms
Hope is the belief that tomorrow can be better than today, and we are the ones who can make it so. Are we creating environments that inspire hope in our young people, our educators, and our communities?
Signs
When I was trying to decide whether to stay in an elementary principal position, I remember looking for signs on my daily walks after work. I kept seeing cardinals. So many, in fact, that it felt like it had to be sign. Now, there are people who say that cardinals represent guidance from people who have passed away. I remember telling myself on these walks that my dad and mother-in-law were showing up to guide me. Whether they were or they weren’t, believing this was an indication of what I needed: love and support.
Do Less with More Intention
In a fast-paced world of strategy and innovation, what if the most “edgy” thing we can do is to simply be grateful for this beautiful life, this meaningful profession, and the good people inside of our schools? What if instead of adding more to plates this school year, we filled our conversations and our work with more love and appreciation? What if we remained steadfast in our focus on those simple things that matter most instructionally?
The Show Goes On
It dawned on me today that if I want this in our school district, the best way to get it is to see the little kid inside of others. When they are yelling, unreasonable, seemingly unfair, they are afraid of something or longing for something too. Picturing their little self allows me to approach them with more compassion. It’s not that I will “treat them like a kid” but I will love them in the ways I needed love then and need it now.
MEGHAN LAWSON 