But what can we do in those moments, periods, and lifetimes of doubt?
Whilst there’s not a simple answer to imposter syndrome or that Sunday night feeling we all get, there are two things that I think can be a big help to us all.
The first of these is kindness.
Many articles have already covered kindness. I’ve worked with some amazing people (such as The Kindness Coach), whose entire focus is kindness. It is however such a good starting point for everything. If we treat each other with kindness, build each other, up and look out for each other then so many amazing things are possible.
All of us have times when our motivation dips, or we struggle. Being kind to each other and relying on each other makes us collectively stronger and helps all of us to be the best version of ourselves.
The second is leadership.
Not the type of leadership such as leading a school community or carrying the weight of a nation on your shoulders, but the small acts that we all perform almost without thinking about it.
Leadership is about identifying our purpose and how we connect with others to achieve that purpose. Many of us don’t see ourselves as leaders, yet when it’s broken down into those two components, every one of us can lead.
Do we want the best for those around us and treat them right? - Yes!
Do we have a sense of purpose and want things to be better? - Yes!
Some of us need to recognise that we are all leaders within our sphere of influence. If we connect with others and have a sense of purpose, then we are leaders. That may be whilst working with a small group, leading a class, a subject, or an area of school.
Recognising that what we do is leadership is an important first step. Those interactions we have with children, parents, and colleagues are leadership interactions. They matter. They make a difference.
Once we have recognised that we are already acting as leaders, there’s an important next step. If we are already having positive effects within our sphere of influence, wouldn’t it be good to have more positive effects? More effect on those around us? A wider positive impact? If you started reading this thinking that our world is a confusing place, be sure to pause for a moment.
Kindness + Leadership = Positive influence
What will you do today to ensure that positive influence?
What will you do that will benefit those around you?
How will you help those around you understand the world and make it a better place?
Visit twinkl.co.uk/leaders to find out more about leadership and access useful resources and blogs that can help you develop within your setting.
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