Search Institute

I had the privilege of being the opening day speaker for a number of school districts this fall as staff transitioned from summer to fall. It was in the midst of that transition that I really tried to focus people’s attention on the experience they were about to have.

With that in mind, I’ve written a list I’d like you to consider signing off on. Pick and choose the ones that fit you best. Share your list with a colleague. Or with your spouse. Or your best friends.

This year I promise:

… that my showing up at work on any given day won’t make anyone’s work or life more difficult.

… that when I’m tired, I’ll commit to adjusting my schedule so that I don’t run down.

… that if I’m still complaining about the same things I was complaining about last year I’ll work toward solving these lingering issues.

… to speak aloud the good things I’m thinking about others.

… that I won’t compete with anyone in trying to be more worn out, spread thinner, or more frazzled to prove how much I love my students.

… that if you catch me at a bad moment and I snap at you, I’ll apologize tomorrow.

… that I’ll stop assuming adults are mature.

… to end whatever “griping” conversations I have about work with the phrase “so what are we going to DO about it?”

…to find another job if I no longer enjoy being around young people.

I could probably go on. You can add your own. But I’m not kidding. Print this out. Put your own list somewhere where you’ll see it often. Share it with others so they encourage you.

The quality of the year ahead has more to do with you than you can imagine. It’s in your hands. Own it!

Giddy up! Have a great year!