If you have not gotten a chance to read my blog about my #oneword for 2016, check out Enjoy the Moment.
As I mentioned in my blog, my #oneword is a call to action for me to be mindful of the moments that make up my day. The moments at home, the moments at work and the moments that happen in between. Watch the video clip below. Do you ever feel this way?
As a building leader how do I ensure my students, parents and teachers "understand the words that are coming out of my mouth"? I understand the words that are coming out of my mouth. I read what I put out in newsletters, emails and other publications. It makes sense to me. I can recall conversations I have with students, teachers and parents. Why don't they? In the words of one of the greatest athletes of all time... "It doesn't matter..." The Rock It does not matter if I understand the words that are coming out of my mouth. What matters is if others do. If they do not, is it my problem or theirs? Ultimately is it mine. It is mine because if they do not understand and they are not comfortable enough with letting me know they do not understand, then guess who is going to need to communicate it again? Guess who is going to need to communicate it again and in a different way? You got it...ME! As a leader, I cannot assume everyone communicates in the same style we do. I must ask questions, follow up, clarify misunderstandings and yes...sometimes I must communicate the same thing again. I prefer face to face communication rather than emails or phone calls, because I can read people's body language, facial expressions and get a better sense of whether I am communicating clearly. As a backup plan, on the off chance I am not picking up on the non-verbal cues, it does not hurt to follow up with an email or a phone call later in the day or the next day, summarizing a conversation, ensuring both parties understand. Yes, it may take an extra step, but I believe the extra step is worth it, saving you time down the road. This is just one of the many lessons in leadership I am reminded of from time to time. I am not communicating clearly if those I am communicating to, do not understand. What was your moment today?