For those reasons, when a business officer shared an article by Dan Rockwell called 7 Ways to Start Your Week Like a Leader, I had to share it with you. Here are some points that resonated with me and may also prove useful to you.
"Connect with that person you’ve been meaning to reach out to. You’re so busy solving issues that you’re neglecting connections. Set up lunch with someone you don’t know, perhaps another leader within your organization. Learn about their challenges and opportunities. Ask how you can be helpful."
I think summer is an ideal time to schedule lunches with colleagues you’ve lost touch with during the school year. Re-connect with someone who gives you energy or always provides helpful insights. Or just give them a call.
"Address an issue you’ve been putting off. Your heart-rate increases every time you think of it. Don’t solve it. Just start a conversation."
The idea that summer provides school leaders an abundance of time is a myth. Yet it does provide you with "different time" that is not dictated by the academic calendar. Take advantage of it and make progress on that one project that matters most or has been clawing at you all year.
"Shift to gratitude when you feel frustrated or worried. Be grateful for opportunities to serve. You matter most when you’re working on issues that matter."
I love what I do. I believe that is a professional trait I have in common with most business officers, as evidenced by what you’ve told me directly and by the fact that so many of you have done what you do for years and decades. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work at NBOA within a profession that matters, alongside all of you. Despite the many challenges and frustrations we may encounter in our jobs, I’d rather spend my summer reflecting on gratitude than frustration.
Here’s a final point about summer, from me rather than Rockwell:
If you have not planned a vacation (or even a "stay-cation") with your significant other, family and/or friends, stop reading and do it now. One thing many outstanding business officers have told me is that when they return from their vacation, the school is always there.
And so, at the beginning of summer 2014, I hope you have a great start to June, July and August—professionally as well as personally.
