MACUL SIG-Admin
October 2016
Keeping Your Eye on the Prize
Several years ago I decided it was time to run a marathon. I had done my fair share of 5K's, 10K's and I even ran a couple of half-marathons. I was convinced that I could do this.
Late in the spring I registered online for the Grand Rapids Marathon. The date was mid-October and I was now committed! That summer I found a terrific schedule. I got up early, checked off my miles and felt great the rest of the day. My confidence was high.
Then the calendar turned to September.
School began and I felt pulled seven different ways to Sunday. My running was inconsistent, my confidence sagged and I started just trying to survive.
The same can be said in our schools. We often have terrific intentions, but one thing or another pulls us away. We end up in a mode of managing and not necessarily leading. We put out fire after fire, but we don't truly move forward.
Years ago I found myself entering into this rut. I snapped out of it by doing three things:
- I let go of some decisions. I began to empower others to lead. I knew for the building and myself I needed to relinquish some of the control. I had to trust and believe in my team.
- Balance. I stopped checking emails all night long. I prioritized my family and myself.
- Laugh! I felt defeated at times, it was important to keep my sense of humor and find things to laugh at. It really is true that laughter is the best medicine!
Looking back I successfully completed my first marathon. I'm grateful that I'm surrounded by supportive friends and a spouse that always believes in me. Each day I reminded myself to stay in the moment. One day at a time. These simple phrases help keep me focused on what's right in front of me.
I still have the medal and the shirt, and each time I look at it I see a reminder to Keep My Eye on the Prize!
Network and Collaborate
If you were unable to make it to the Mindshare I hope you'll check out the Yearbook and I also encourage you to join the upcoming Twitter chat (more on this to follow).
Be sure to check out the Leadership Mindshare Yearbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0JnfSHkiiU7SF95QmxHVzlUMEk/view
MACUL SIG-Admin
Email: Ben.Gilpin@macul.org
Website: http://macul.org/sigs/sigadmin/
Location: Michigan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SIGADMIN-611624722324314/
Twitter: @sigad_macul