No Excuses Leadership

The Right Tools

I love woodworking.  For about ten years now I've dabbled in the hobby, but never made any kind of progress towards becoming a "master woodworker".  At this point I can basically build a birdhouse.  But I'd like to do so much more. Lately I've been digging deep in pursuit of finding all the right tricks and techniques to becoming great at the craft.  In every blog post, youtube video, magazine, or DIY TV show, success is always predicated on one thing . . . using the right tools.  

Finding the right tools and using them properly is an investment in time and money.  It takes a long-view to purchase an expensive tool and understand that the payoff will all be worth it in the end.  Every time I purchase a tool I ask myself, "What will it cost me if I DON'T buy this tool?"  I have found, without exception, that using the wrong tools costs me more time, money, and frustration than it would have had I just made the proper investment right from the start.

Leadership requires the use of the right tools as well.  If you have a desire to become a better, BOLDER, more exceptional leader, maybe it's time for you to invest in the right tools.  From taking the time to attend a professional workshop, to seeking the support of the right mentor or coach, to purchasing the right technology to help you manage your daily life, ask yourself,  "What will it cost me if I don't invest in the right tools?"

TAKE ACTION

When I was a new principal I understood the value of being informed about what was happening in the world of education.  I subscribed to numerous educational magazines and became a member of several different leadership organizations in order to keep up with the changes in our profession.  It didn't take long before I became overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content.  That's when I came across a website run by a guy named Kim Marshall.  Kim reads hundreds of articles each week and posts summaries about the top 10-15 as part of his weekly "Marshall Memo".  Think of it as a Cliff's Notes for educators.  The service is $50 a year and has proven to be an invaluable tool for me as a leader.

BE BOLD

Visit the www.marshallmemo.com where you can download a free sample issue.