Today was busy, it was the first time so far I have felt that I might need more time in day. I managed to get almost everything done I had on my list, what didn’t was part of a “nice to do” rather than a “must do” list. The most valuable part of my day was being able to start connecting 1:1 with colleagues. I decided to follow Bungay Stanier’s 7 coaching questions to guide the discussions. It was a useful resource but I constantly find myself questioning what other folks think when I am following similar models. I made a conscious effort to stick to it, listen carefully, paraphrase, ask for clarification, not make assumptions and ensure each meeting finished with colleagues knowing what my next steps will be.
By the end of the day I had been able to connect one colleague to some awesome people from a previous school, provide another colleague with some resources to reframe their role and start exploring what it could become and had reached out to a few contacts for guidance and resources to support another. I really enjoyed this, it helped reinforce the variety of experiences I have sought out and connections I have developed are what will help me successful in these roles and provide me the foundation to help my colleagues.
There weren’t any major fires today, just some small smouldering embers that were quickly smothered by a leadership team very quick to respond to challenges outside their title to ensure it is dealt with quickly and faculty can focus on the kids. I am really enjoying working with this team, I have learned a lot in a short period of time.
Learning to Lead 