Leading with Joy and Positive Energy - Empowered Educator

Why do we create a bucket list?

It’s our way of connecting our aspirations, dreams and values with meaningful experiences. It brings us positive energy as we focus on what will be!

A bucket list encourages and motivates us to accomplish our most meaningful things.

And oh, that feeling when we achieve an item on our bucket list - for me, that feeling is joy!

I got to check off a bucket list item by holding a baby goat named Lily wearing a pink tutu. This experience filled me with pure happiness. For some, it may not seem significant, but as a city girl, I had never experienced anything like it. There is something about that cute little goat face I just needed to experience!

Finally holding that baby goat brought a massive smile to my face, and I felt my heart burst with joy. I posted a photo on social media and received positive comments from many friends about the joy captured in the moment. It felt great sharing that happy moment with others!

Bucket Moments: Part 1

Bucket moments are not just fleeting moments. They are significant experiences that bring us joy, inspiration, and positivity. These moments have the power to uplift and energize, helping to counterbalance the daily grind. They can be big or small, personal or shared, but what they all have in common is their ability to bring a sense of fulfillment and happiness.

Educators, remember this: Your impact is a reflection of your energy.

Yes, there are days when leadership can be incredibly demanding, with many challenges to navigate—whether it's supporting staff, addressing parents' concerns, or meeting students' needs. Understandably, the weight of these responsibilities can leave you feeling drained at the end of the day.

Yet, imagine the powerful energy that can come from creating 'bucket moments' for your staff.

Think about where you can maximize your impact and find ways to infuse positivity into your school community. This could significantly improve morale and overall effectiveness, providing some relief amidst the ongoing pressures. The joy from these moments is not just for you but for everyone you lead. Let this joy inspire and motivate you in your leadership journey. 

Reflection Questions:

• What specific 'bucket moments' have you recently created for your staff and students, and how have these moments impacted their engagement and morale? 

• Looking ahead, what new opportunities or strategies could you implement to create more 'bucket moments' in your school community?

“Joy is a decision, a really brave one, about how you are going to respond to life."

- Wess Stafford

Bucket Moments: Part 2

One thing remains constant: the impact of the energy you bring to work. Yet the power of attitude is often underestimated. The truth is your energy can make or break your feelings about work and that of your community. Your impact is a journey filled with opportunities to bring joy and optimism to others and yourself.

Energy is a powerful tool—use it wisely to inspire, lead, and make a meaningful impact.

• Positive energy can uplift and motivate those around you, creating a more engaged and enthusiastic team. Conversely, negative energy can sap motivation.

• A positive outlook encourages creative thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. On the other hand, a negative attitude can stifle creativity and hinder progress.

Leadership isn’t just about giving directions; it’s about living the values and energy you wish to see in your team. Influential leaders focus their energy on building trust to drive performance.

Create ‘bucket moments’ to uplift and infuse positivity into the daily grind of the week. In the days ahead, provide bucket moments because they can have a profound impact, turning every day into opportunities for upliftment and encouragement. Imagine these 'bucket moments' ripple effect in your school community, infusing it with a renewed sense of joy and positivity.

Leader Call to Action:

Leverage these moments in your day as opportunities to infuse joy and positive energy:

• I see you!
  
  • Daily greetings at the door, personalized notes, shout-outs or spotlights of staff and students, and joining reading groups, science labs or recess set a tone that all are valued here.
• Encourage teamwork.
  • Offer collaborative projects for students and teachers to work together, helping build positive relationships.
• Be approachable.
  • Encourage staff and students to share ideas and concerns and to feel they contribute to the school's life; this deepens feelings of belonging.
• Have fun!
  • Once a week, I shared jokes at a school assembly, which became a tradition. Students also shared their jokes for me to tell. Letting loose and showing your fun side can strengthen your connections.

“The most powerful leadership tool you have is your example."

- John Wooden, UCLA Basketball Coach