There is a Time to Dance

The idea that there is a time for everything, even a time to dance, can be aptly illustrated through the movie "Footloose" (Herbert Ross, 1984). In this film, the protagonist, Ren McCormack, moves to a small town where dancing and rock music have been banned due to conservative beliefs. Ren challenges this cultural norm and fights for the right to dance, advocating for the importance of self-expression, freedom, and joy.

As a school leader, embracing the philosophy of "Footloose" can serve as a reminder that while there will always be new challenges and learning experiences, there is also a need to find moments of celebration and joy. Just as Ren took a stand for dancing in the face of adversity, school leaders should recognize that amidst continuous learning and problem-solving, there are times to celebrate achievements, build camaraderie, and promote a positive atmosphere within the school community. This balanced approach acknowledges the importance of addressing new challenges while also fostering an environment where people can come together, celebrate accomplishments, and enjoy the journey.

Just remember, there is a time to dance.

Until next time...

Game of Balance

Life is truly a game of balance.  A balance of work duties, family obligations, and personal time in a 24 hour period.  According to what we all know to be true, life can be broken down into thirds. That means that a third of our day we spend at work, a third we spend at leisure, leaving a third of the time for sleep. When breaking down a 24 hour day, that gives us about 8 hours for each one however, is that a true representation?

I do know that whenever any of the thirds overlap, problems or challenges may arise.  For example, I don’t believe anyone feels it is appropriate to sleep at work.  What about play at work?  Probably not the best way to utilize your time. What if either of the other two infringe on sleep?  When that happens, the result is probably spending the next day very tired. If this situation were to continue, the loss of sleep would have negative physical and/or emotional effects.

Understanding this, I really try to keep my thirds separated. There is a time for work, a time for sleep, and a time for leisure. All are very important and should be kept separated with no blending or overlap.  As a person that enjoys my family, anytime I bring work home, I sacrifice time.  As a school administrator, there are evenings that I am going to spend at school.  Many times, that time extends into time with the family. Most importantly, when those days occur, I am obligated to ‘make it right’. So I chisel out extra time to be with the kids.

All and all, I believe in life as big a game of balance.  Balance of the important with that which is not so much.  Balance of what to eat and what to eat not so much of, and the balance of time.  As the saying goes, the time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time. 

Until next time...

Misery loves company

Throughout my career I have experienced my share of negativity. Negative situations and negative people that have the potential to infect others. Though this is the case, I have always tried to avoid these situations because I believe in the power of positivity. I also understand that misery loves company and I certainly don’t want to extend the invitation.

As an educator of over 25 years, I have observed the idea of social gravity in both adults and students. By definition, social gravitation happens when people are attracted to each other. This phenomena in human physics is the reason why certain people naturally gravitate toward one another while others unknowingly recede. Understanding this, it is not too much of a reach to say that misery will find and gravitate toward misery. Conversely, happy people will attract happier people.

Now, it is important to note that displaying empathy is not accepting of the negativity. Being a supporter of a friend or family member going through a difficult time is and always will be the right thing to do. Avoiding negativity can happen when you are an active non-participant. Complaint sessions by anyone do not have to involve everyone. The most wise decision is to avoid the people that will try to add you to the misery party list.

I have found in life that there are people who will do everything possible to help you succeed and there are also those that are not so helpful. Some do their best to place hurdles in front of you as you are on your path to reaching your goals. Embrace those challenges and be so good you cannot be denied. Just as darkness cannot exist in the presence of the light, negativity cannot compete with positivity. If misery is left alone, alone it will remain. So just remember, misery loves company, so don’t invite misery to the party.

Until next time...