Sometimes I think we have too many rules. When this happens to me, it usually is due to the fact that the rule or rules have become a road block to me in some way. To co-exist in a peaceful manner with one another, we need to adhere to rules. Generally, I can follow rules and be comfortable following them. On occasion I have been known to bend the rules to accommodate the circumstance. Other people may be strict rule followers....is one better than the other?
One rule that I do not steer from in work, school or personal life is the Golden Rule of "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Maybe I have my head in the clouds with this one, but I feel that everyone deserves fair and just treatment. Respect at school has become our focus and something that I am asking kids to stop and think about during an altercation. They need to consider whether the action or comment was necessary or was it hurtful. Sometimes when we put things into perspective by asking ourselves if we would want to be the person on the receiving end of harmful actions, it is enough to initiate reconsideration and approach the problem differently.
As a new principal, I am wary about how I approach things. Leading with my heart and my head together I try to present situations in a manner that is non-threatening, and encourages engagement. Before I approach a situation, I consider how I would feel at the receiving end. Always, it is important that I do things in a non-threatening way. By making an attempt to always focus on a positive helps me build the bridge between principal and teacher and student. Everyone likes to hear about positive things...it makes you feel good.
One final comment on this...
Every situation has its own circumstances, therefore applying strict rules may not be wise. One set of shoes does not fit every person, sometimes adjustments need to be made, so that we can all be comfortable and perform to the best of our abilities. With that being said....I gotta go dig out my extra warm boots....taking my students on a field trip. I will be sure to follow the road rules along the way though.
Hi Sheri, you are so right, not every rule fits every circumstance. Fair isn't always equal. We need to look at every scenario individually. Trying to stay positive is so important as it as a huge impact on people. Keep staying positive you are doing good work.
ReplyDeleteKrista