Be The Leader You Want To Be

At edLead, we believe that leading self is the foundation of effective leadership. It’s not just a concept - it’s an active practice.

Many of our most powerful coaching conversations don’t start with strategy or systems or “doing”, but with self-awareness.

We notice that leaders who make the most impact and have joy, meaning and purpose in their roles, are the ones who are aware of their emotional responses, challenge unhelpful thinking, stay curious to feedback, and align their actions with their values and strengths.

These are the leaders who are able to navigate productively through change, can maintain focus and direction in times of uncertainty and protect teachers from distractions so that learning and teaching remains the top priority.

The current climate of change and uncertainty in education is not likely to disappear in the near future. The ripple effects will lap our shores for some time to come. We know that leading effectively through such times is challenging but also crucial. We also know how hard it can be to do this alone.

Individual leadership coaching provides quality 1 to 1 time for reflection, learning, feedback, planning, ‘getting stuff off your chest’ and moving forward. Coaching is supportive and non- judgmental. It provides challenge, clarity and affirmation. Coaching is confidential and allows leaders to grow and develop through their daily work.

5 things to ponder…..

-Nothing is good or bad but thinking makes it so.  Mo Gawdat

-What am I noticing about how I respond to feedback, praise and challenge?

-What are you known for and what do you want to be known for?

-What do people over-estimate about you? What do they and under-estimate about you?

-What do I want to keep, shift or strengthen in how I lead myself in term 3?

Let’s not wait for stress, pressure and overwhelm to force a reaction. Let’s deliberately choose how we respond. Start planning for 2026 now. Invest in yourself and your leaders through quality leadership coaching.

Best wishes for a relaxing holiday break.

Ngā mihi

Carol & Nadia