Every year, for the last several, I have committed to writing more frequently, journaling my personal and professional life. I always have such good intentions. That is true for much of my life - good intentions. I try to do so many things and often none of them as well as I would like. The inevitable...too many things on my plate.
There is so much that I want to do, so many dreams and visions for what could be.
That is what led me to my #oneword2018. FOCUS.
I made the move into administration in 2015 and it has been such a challenge. I am a life-long learner and this new challenge was one I took on without all the necessary knowledge - so I dove deep into reading and increasing my skill set. I jumped onto Twitter, participated in chats and was motivated by some great leaders. My books collection increased (My sticker collection too.) and my Amazon wishlist continues to grow. There have been some great successes and, of course, a fair share of challenges. I have been pushed out of my comfort zone more times than I can count.
We do many things well at our school and have a wonderfully supportive staff and group of parents that get things done. But I wouldn't be a good leader if I didn't think things could be even better. I look around our campus and see SO. MANY. THINGS. To fix, to change, to improve, to transform. My vision is so great.
I keep a notebook with me at all times, and it is full of notes, and ideas, thoughts, plans. Often times I can be overwhelmed with all that I intend to do. Again, so many good intentions. Sometimes I feel lost and like I have accomplished little. Flipping from one thing to another and getting nothing truly accomplished. My dear friend often reminds me not to go chasing rabbits.
At home, I often feel the same. I have an active family with four children who have schedules of their own and a husband who is a dedicated coach serving his athletes. Add the commitments to my school and it can be a bit of a scheduling nightmare. When I step through the doors at home, I often am responding to texts, going back and fourth between my computer and the kitchen trying to be mom, wife and principal. So many things calling for my attention and there I am - chasing rabbits.
I want our school to have success and so this year I will remain FOCUSed. I will focus on our mission and keep that at the core of all decisions we make. I will focus on telling our story and inviting other in to feel what we are about. I will focus my energies on creating a positive environment for our staff to live out what we desire for our school. I will learn to say no to things that don't support that from happening.
I want to be able to devote myself to my family. That means leaving work at the door and prioritizing events so that I can BE fully present as mom. Again, learning to say no to the things that keep me from being focused on the blessing that is my family.
No more chasing rabbits.
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