Theme: Leading Self
Ki te wātea te hinengaro, me te kaha rere o te wairua, ka tāea ngā mea katoa.
When the mind is free and the spirit is willing, anything is possible.
Module Objectives:
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Identify and implement strategies for managing stress and maintaining well-being.
- Develop and implement effective time management strategies.
- Understand the importance of self-care and identify personal self-care practices.
- Build resilience to navigate the challenges and demands of leadership.
Understanding Stress and its Impact
Reading 1 and 2: “Understanding Stress” and “Reducing Impact”
These readings explore the sources of stress, the impact of stress on individual well-being, and the importance of proactive stress management.
Building Resilience
Reading 3: Circle of Influence
This Powerpoint, from Oxford University, explores a tool developed by Stephen Covey, called the Circles of Influence.
School leaders often grapple with a range of concerns, from urgent tasks to systemic challenges beyond their immediate control. Steven Covey’s concept of “circles of concern” and “influence” provides a valuable framework for navigating these anxieties. The “circle of concern” encompasses all the issues that occupy a leader’s thoughts, including those beyond their control, such as government policies. In contrast, the “circle of influence” represents the areas where a leader can exert some level of control or influence. Focusing energy on the “circle of influence” empowers leaders to be proactive, fostering a sense of agency and reducing feelings of helplessness.
Building resilience is crucial for navigating the complexities of leadership. By cultivating a positive mindset, directing energy towards areas within their control, and prioritising self-care, school leaders can effectively manage stress, bounce back from challenges, and thrive in their roles. A leader’s well-being is paramount. By nurturing their own growth and well-being, school leaders can approach challenges with optimism and determination, ultimately expanding their sphere of influence and creating a positive impact on their school community.
Time Management Strategies
Reading 4: “Managing your Time” – https://www.educationalleaders.govt.nz/Managing-your-school/Guides-for-managing-your-school/Managing-your-time
This reading will explore various time management techniques. Which ideas are most applicable to you?
Self-Care Practices
Task: “My Self-Care Toolkit”
- Reflect on your current self-care practices. What activities do you currently engage in to support your well-being? Use Te Whare Tapa Whā as a framework to help you reflect https://mentalhealth.org.nz/te-whare-tapa-wha
- Identify areas where you could improve your self-care practices.
- Develop a personal self-care plan that includes a variety of activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, spending time in nature, connecting with loved ones, and engaging in hobbies.
- Post your “My Self-Care Toolkit” (a list of your chosen self-care practices) on the online forum for peer feedback and discussion – 150 words or less.
Assessment:
- Completion of all readings.
- Participation in the online forum discussion.
- Reflection on personal self-care practices and development of a personal self-care plan.
2 Responses
My self-care toolkit is about deliberately taking time for myself. For my physical health, I walk my hyperactive dogs each day, and I go to either hot mat pilates or yoga each evening. I also literally set alarms (much to my classes delight) to remind me to drink water. I also use My Food Bag to ensure that my eating is clean, and it also saves me time not having to go to the supermarket after work, or spend hours in my weekend meal prepping. For my mental well-being, I prioritise 8 hours sleep. I read a lot, and I am an avid Rugby League supporter and spend time coaching from my couch and attending home games for the Wahs. I also have a regular brunch date with my girlfriends on a Saturday once every 4 weeks, and I love spending time with family and friends at our beach property up North. For my spiritual side, I love to spend as much time as possible on, in or surrounded by the Ocean. I also like to take regular walks/hikes in nature to turn off the noise.
My self-care toolkit is about making sure I’m looking after all parts of myself. For my physical health, I try to get out for regular walks and keep my meals on track using Woop so I’m actually eating well. For my mental wellbeing, I carve out time to read—it helps me slow down and switch off a bit. Staying connected is important too, so I make sure I’ve got visits home planned and time booked in with friends. Getting up to the bach at Ahipara is a big one—it’s where I properly relax and reset. Then there’s the more personal side of things—being in nature, spending time with people I care about, and having those quieter moments helps me feel grounded. It’s nothing fancy, just small, consistent things that help me stay balanced.