Being Positive Starts with Having Gratitude

I am so very thankful for the opportunity that I had this year by taking on a new leadership position. The people I work with and serve are incredible professionals with so much dedication and care. I have been inspired by all of their work and innovation. The culture is contagious with care and a common goal of helping students become better students and people.

I have found that when I remember all that I have to be grateful for in life, it helps keep me on the road to positivity. It doesn't matter what people do for a living; hardships (personal, professional, or even both) always exists. Some careers can be very demanding especially when roadblocks are put up to prevent you from doing what you feel is best (especially for our youth). However, the best thing we can do for others is to model healthy ways to overcome adversity. Here are just a few strategies I use to stay on the positive tracks and keep from running out of gas.

1) Gratitude: Count your blessings. Appreciate all you have. Share with others for whom you are grateful. Let people know you appreciate them; they will do the same. Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself all you have to be grateful for in work and life.

2) Fill Your Bucket: This notion has two parts. First, your perception to keep it half or more full. Don't focus on half empty, only half full. Second, find ways to fill your bucket. This is different for everyone: family time, exercise, hobby, church/organizations, volunteer work, etc. Find something that makes you happy, and make time for it.

3) Network and Collaborate: Do not create an island of negativity or sit still with an empty tank. In this day and age, others are out there to help you through it--either in person and/or virtually. My best professional support this past year has come from association (MEMSPA) contacts and an out-of-state collaboration buddy who was also a middle level principal. We supported one another through difficult climate issues, book studies, and inspired each other to not settle--to keep growing. If you are a principal and need a collaborative buddy, let me know. It is a goal of MEMSPA this year to keep you connected for mentoring,  coaching, or even just a little support.

You can't be positive or stay positive without having gratitude. Thank someone today!