Here it is my first dedicated blog entry as an elementary principal. By that, I mean I have started about 10 blogs but they remain in draft mode on some website I can't remember with some log-in I have long forgotten. I have suppressed this inaugural launch for multiple reasons including that nagging little voice of self doubt telling me that no one wants to hear what this gal from central Arkansas has to say about education. I am stepping out on faith and holding tight to my one word for 2K15....BELIEVE. If I have learned anything through my professional journey it is the fact that educators are the most valuable resource to other educators ... MVR if you will. If I can serve as a MVR to one person and help them, encourage them, inspire them isn't that enough? Who cares if I'm not the most eloquent of writers or that I make an occasional spelling/grammar error. Is that really going to stand in my way? NO it is not. Time to kick self doubt to the curb!
So as I reflect on this idea of MVR I can't help but think back to those people that served as my Most Valuable Resources throughout my career and the traits they had/have in common. Through this reflective process, I realized the following about my MVRs and I am devoted to developing and refining these traits in myself.
Traits of a Most Valuable Resource:
1. Be honest. When someone comes to you for help be honest. If it is a bad idea...don't pretend it is a good one. Ask critical questions to help get a clear plan and define the true goal.
2. Be a good listener. Serving as a MVR requires strong listening skills .... don't try to solve everyone's problems. Most people already own a solution but need a critical friend to help clarify.
3. Share what you know without sounding like you know it all.
4. Network with other MVRs (develop and build a strong PLN)
5. Believe in the good of mankind and be POSITIVE.
6. Talk in solution mode, not in problem mode. Problems appear bigger than they are if that is all you focus on.
Most Valuable Resource.... be someone's today!
Until next time, enjoy the view from your own sidewalk!
The 6 traits are "spot on". I believe these are a good foundation for Coaching also. This foundation would be a powerful place to begin TESS or LEADS conversations (coaching).
What a great first post. I think the idea of a MVR is fantastic and the traits you listed are essential for any leader. Thanks for sharing and becoming a MVR to me and others through your blog!
Jon
Reply
Julie
1/28/2015 10:30:57 am
I'm so proud of you for launching your own blog! You are definitely one of my MVR's and I look forward to learning from you as I continue my own journey in leadership. Keep blogging!
Reply
Leave a Reply.
Karen Norton
I have been an educator for 18 years and currently serve as the elementary principal aka lead learner for Team Awesome! I love this profession!!