As I look back at my journey, it's clear that growing into a mature leader has been a series of eye-opening moments. The twists and turns of leadership have taught me valuable lessons, and one truth stands out above all: leadership is a delicate dance of the heart, the mind, and the soul.

When I was just starting out as a young leader, I thought I had it all figured out. My perspective was centered on survival—making quick decisions, tackling each moment as it came, and hoping to emerge unscathed. But what escaped me during those intense times was the bigger picture, the lasting impact of the choices I was making.

New leaders, especially those stepping into roles like principals or superintendents, often hit the ground running. The urgency is crystal clear, and it's easy to get caught up in the momentum. However, this whirlwind pace can sometimes create friction. Communities might resist change, misinterpreting your intentions as criticism aimed at dismantling their hard work. You might be thinking, "Wait, I'm here to bring about change!" And yes, that's your role. Yet, the manner in which change is approached can either unite people in support or trigger resistance.

I vividly recall my early days as a principal. I believed I was fostering unity, but unwittingly, I was sowing seeds of opposition. The irony is that we all shared the same goals, but our ability to truly listen to each other was clouded. My focus on survival overshadowed my capacity to trust and embrace different viewpoints. Admitting that I didn't have all the answers wasn't easy; I believed I needed to be the all-knowing leader in every circumstance. That turned out to be a significant misstep. When I faced situations where my expertise fell short, fear paralyzed me. I worried about being exposed, concerned that they'd see my vulnerabilities.

Writing this now, it seems almost comical. But in the moment, it felt logical. Leadership has its intimidating and isolating aspects, yet through the years, I've come to realize it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, it shouldn't be.

Effective leadership is about nurturing the hearts, minds, and souls of the school community. My role is to guide, not control—to empower others to see possibilities. It was only after seeking guidance from mentors and weathering a few missteps that I truly grasped my purpose.

So, what's the takeaway? Strive to be a leader who listens, who builds connections, who openly shares vulnerabilities, and who actively seeks guidance. This approach paves the way for a fulfilling leadership journey, where growth and success become intertwined companions.