All the answers!

I listened to a podcast featuring Simon Sinek this morning.  He was asked, "As a leader, what is the toughest thing you have had to learn?"

His answer was a great one!  I think it rings true in school buildings all the time.  Whether you are the leader of a classroom, or the leader of a school, or the leader of a school district, his lesson is an important one.

He replied, "The toughest thing I have learned is that I don't have to know all the answers and I don't have to pretend that I do."

He went on to explain that oftentimes, leaders are expected to provide answers.  Leaders expect themselves to know the answers too.  Some leaders give answers that they may be unsure of in an effort to look like they actually do know!  The problem with these uncertain responses is that they can break down trust when they are inaccurate.

When folks look to a leader for answers, they usually have one specific answer they want to hear.  If you aren't sure of your response, ask them what their answer is.  It will probably be better than yours!