This month, we discuss the importance of leading with authenticity and vulnerability.
3 SEL Leadership Thoughts
A leader’s messaging can be unintentionally demotivating when it is perceived as "cheerleading" or overly positive. Although this type of messaging is not intended to be harmful, it can often be frustrating when folks feel as though leaders are not acknowledging the very real challenges that they are facing. We cannot continually praise resilience without addressing the underlying issues that create the need for resilience in the first place. [Tweet This]
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Effective leaders find ways to both recognize others for their behind-the-scenes work (steward leadership) while also balancing positivity with an acknowledgment of the real challenges at hand. That, combined with small shifts to offer support, can help authentically convey appreciation and care. [Tweet This]
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Strategic planning (as a stage in the work of an organization’s SEL journey) is typically thought about as coming before implementation and measuring outcomes. But great leaders know to shift away from this linear thinking and, instead, embrace strategic planning as a circular process; one that thrives when we constantly experiment and iterate. [Tweet This]
2 Quotes from SEL Leaders
“The success of any new initiative is dependent on those who will be enacting it, so making a plan to support them is crucial.” – Karen Poplawski [Tweet This]
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“A distinguishing competency of effective leaders is the ability to modulate emotions. Educational leaders must work in highly charged environments. How they handle their emotional reactions will strongly affect their leadership.” – Cary Cherniss [Tweet This]
1 Question to Reflect On
What are the most effective change management strategies that you’ve implemented this school year?
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Until next month,
Nick Woolf
Author of SEL in 5
Founder of Inside SEL
p.s. here’s what else I’m reading and listening to: