Systems for Principal

"Your mind is made for having ideas, not for holding ideas.” - Chase Jarvis (from the Tim Ferriss Show Podcast Episode 384 - David Allen - The Art of Getting Things Down)

Can you imagine a classroom without any procedures or systems? Would you be able to function as a teacher or a student in that manner?

We don't need Harry Wong to tell us that such a setup is a recipe for disaster. (This is not to knock student choice. But such choices need to be made within a certain framework to ensure a focus on learning, success, and respect).

Why do so many school leaders think they can be effective without those same routines?

A leader needs the flexibility to handle the situations that arise within the framework of the day. You are only as strong as your task management system is - just a teacher is only as strong as a classroom management system.

One of the gifts of the Onward Leaders year - and one of the most important lessons - is seeing the workflow of a principal (without it being on your solo desk) and discerning your methods for prioritizing, accomplishing, and sequencing work. You cannot plan on reacting - it will only lead to exhaustion, discontentment, and ineffectiveness.

A couple of quick rules that I try to incorporate in my workflow design:

1. Use a to do list manager - I have two. My email functions as my project specific to do list. My reoccuring to-do list is Wunderlist. Occasionally, I use post-it notes from a meeting.

2. Prioritize based on centrality to mission/need - if you are a lead learner - your day should reflect that. If you are an operations manager - your day should reflect that. If you are the head of marketing - your day should reflect that. Start with what is most important and essential and get it done. I should be able to tell what matters to you by looking at your calendar (or schedule, or day).

3. Avoid the email trap - I've pruned my notifications on my phone [this is a fantastic guide to doing so]. I use the snooze function often. I never start my day by checking email. I avoid responding to email after 4pm. These are all ways we let email control us instead of us using email.

4. Self-care - inspired by Dr. Baxter, I now wake up at 4:45am to run. I try to read a chapter in my book every night. Take that time for yourself or your sleep.

5. Say No - if you can't see the positive in an event or activity for yourself, your family, your mission, or your school - just say no or delegate. It's okay to do so!

There's more, but I think those are really good starts to being a leader and not a re-acter.

Today's to do list.