"Live In the Arena"

To begin a recent admin team meeting, our superintendent had us view some digital media from Dr Brené Brown, who has one of the most viewed TED talks in the world.  Among other items, we focused on our "arena."

"I want to be in the arena.  ...  We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can't choose both.  Not at the same time." - Brene Brown

We were asked:

What does it mean to you to "live in the arena" in regards to your role?

I believe being regularly and consistently available to our wide-range of stakeholders, including teachers, staff, students, and parents, and being willing to listen to criticism that may not be enjoyable to hear.  Then, accepting the challenge and embrace the opportunity to grow, if necessary.

I routinely communicate, "Please don't hesitate to contact me..", to a wide-range of people.  Therefore, if we set this expectation for ourselves, then we have to welcome when our stakeholders actually do.

Especially if it potentially difficult, challenging, and uncomfortable.

This is how I "live in the arena." 

Thank you for viewing,

CS

The opinions shared in this blog belong to Craig Smith and do not represent the school or district in which he works.