Skip to content

The Distinguishing Factor: Believing, Persisting, Finishing

What's a big goal that you want to reach? I mean a BIG goal—one that you've been wanting to achieve for a very long time?

Several years ago I started to write a book, but never quite finished it. The inspiration for the principles I discovered began almost 20 years ago. I've taught them at many different leadership, retreats, workshops and conferences. But life, work, family, and whatever else got in the way. I kept promising friend and family that I would publish the book.

What I discovered was life-changing for me as a school leader, enabling us to grow greater trust and resilience through intentional practices of communication and relationships. 

The Book on CommunicationThis year I declared I'd finish and I did IT! The Book on Communication is live. 🤗

👉 thebookoncommunication.com

The Kindle pre-order is available now, and the print versions will launch on Oct 21st.

It took focus and discipline, but I'm so excited to share these insights with you.
Finishing feels great, and I pray it's an inspiration for others to pursue a dream.

 



A distinctive trait of excellent educators is their persistent belief in possibilities. When assessing school culture and authenticity of the mission, this one quality matters more than all others combined—much more valuable than credentials.

We model how to set aspirational goals and follow through on commitments.
We model how and when to take risks, going outside the comfort zone to grow.
We model perseverance and persistence, overcoming the barriers to find a way.

Our example matters!
 
Example is not the main
thing in influencing others.
It is the only thing.
— Albert Schweitzer
 
One of the hard things about being an educator is our never-ending influence. This isn't a dress rehearsal. Every day we shape the pathways of people's lives. They notice and learn how we communicate and build trust, constantly picking up knowledge and practical habits that will shape future plans and decisions.

This is particularly true in how we communicate, resolve conflict, and create clarity. That's why The Book on Communication was so important to me and has become a core part of the leadership practices for schools and other organizations across the country. The ecosystem of trust in a school is uniquely complex and emotionally engaged.

While this book is written for people in any field of work, it is especially beneficial for educators at all levels and in all roles.  Excellent schools are the result of talented, energized, engaged educators who humbly and deliberately pursue their own dreams while also motivating others.

Be the example worth following this week, my friend, because your faithfulness will be remembered.

A coaching question to ask yourself at the end of each day:
Did I do my best to be a worthy example today?

Love'em and Lead'em!

Listen to the School Growth podcast

Read On

by: Scott Barron
Communication, Laws of the Grapevine
What's a big goal that you want to reach? I mean a BIG goal—one that you've been wanting to achieve for a very long time?
by: Dr. Amy Galloway Swann
School Improvement, strategic planning, School Leadership, Board Governance
What Aren't You Talking About? School leaders usually know which issue is on fire.
by: Scott Barron
Culture, Encouragement
In our ministry to and with educators, we walk together through different seasons. Lately, it's been more difficult, with many experiencing the death of loved ones. It shouldn't be surprising, and yet it is.