Keep living your purpose

It’s hard to think of spring when you have trouble finding a place to put the accumulating snow we have had this year in many parts of our state. Hopefully, by the time this column is published we will see dry pavement, robins aplenty and kids riding their bikes!

As you look toward the end of another school year, a friendly reminder to keep living your purpose. Our MASA Executive Development Committee developed this theme for the 2022-2023 school year more than a year ago. The Spring Conference focused on how we can live out our purpose in our daily work. 

Here are some tips I heard at the conference that might help you focus on your purpose as you encounter anxious staff and students eagerly awaiting the end of the school year:

• Listen. Really listen to whomever is speaking with you.
• Write a purpose statement that you reference frequently. Clarify what you truly mean when you articulate your purpose. Think beyond what first comes to mind. Go deep into your purpose so you don’t question your why when times get tough.
• Be intentional about your self-talk. Focus on the positive and the possible. Believe in yourself. Be kind to yourself. If you are thinking negatively, transform your thinking to the positive to reinvigorate your purpose.
• Know that you are courageous and engaged in noble work. It is challenging work, rewarding and some say your job is the best they ever had. Share a positive narrative about public education whenever you have the chance. Celebrate success!

Some of the best tips will come from your colleagues. Lean on them. You are not alone in this work. Living your purpose requires a healthy you and your colleagues and I stand ready to support you in your purpose. Call us. We will listen-really listen.

I hope you have a refreshing summer filled with whatever it is you like to do.  Thank you for all you do. Your leadership matters.