A Shift in Focus- From Tablescapes to Human Hearts

“There are only two ways to influence human behavior.  You can manipulate it or you can inspire it.” - Simon Sinek 

I was recently added to a social media page for school principals where leaders are sharing ideas, tips, and tricks on being a principal- a wonderful professional learning network. Many posts and inquiries at this time in the summer are centering around principals preparing to welcome back their teachers and kick off their school year. Commonly seen are inquiries such as help with ideas for school year themes, ideas for items to include in a teacher welcome back bags, team building ideas, and ways to decorate around a theme on a public school budget. 

One recent post really caught my attention though.  It was from a first year Principal whose inquiry went as such “... I want to ensure our teachers are reminded on their first day back why they continue to choose this profession, especially after these recent years.  Can you share ideas on ways that you inspire your teachers on their first day back?”   I thought to myself, “Man, I would love to work for this leader.”  As much as I can appreciate the well intentioned efforts of the posts around ideas around themes, decorations, and gifts, capturing the HEARTS of our educators on their first day back communicates genuine respect and admiration for the work of teachers.  I’ll take a leader interested in my heart over some Oriental Trading treats any day. 

What if we challenged ourselves as leaders to stress less about the tablescapes and treats and focus more on how we want those we serve to FEEL on their day back.  How do we want them to feel when they walk in, head to lunch, and leave on their first day?  Wouldn’t we all desire this for our children’s teachers as well?  A teacher more focused on getting into the hearts of their learners as opposed to the font on the back to school packet? 

Today more than ever in education, those we serve are looking for leaders to inspire them through their words and their own example.  Educators today deserve to look to leaders who inspire through honest and open communication, vulnerability, compassion, passion, and innovation.  Designing a day back in which we intentionally focus on how we want others to feel allows us to put the handbook, rules, and regulations on pause and focus on the spirit of those who still choose the calling of teacher. 

I often hear leaders say, “Motivational speaking is not my gift.” In my opinion, speaking to the hearts of those you serve through vulnerability, genuine interest in the shared vision of the team, and their well being is a required leadership skill and one that should come naturally when we know and love those we serve. It comes naturally when we desire to meet the emotional needs of others and put those needs above our need to be in control or in charge.

We show people how much we care for them when we take the risk, open up, and lead with inspiration.  Make yourself uncomfortable and go grab the hearts of your staff.  I guarantee you will leave on day one reminded of why you choose your calling as well!