The best leaders don't go it alone. They have these 4 people in their life to support them and make them even more effective.

1. The Cheerleader: This is the person who, no matter what the odds are stacked against you, tells you that you CAN DO THIS and in fact you were MADE FOR THIS. They always see the best in you, have endless optimism and truly believe in you. This is the person you call when things get really tough and you start to doubt yourself. 

2. The Reminder: This is that person who is always super on top of their calendar and to-do list. They remind you to do your monthly fire drill, to submit that paperwork that's due at the end of the week, and text you the address of the off-site professional development the morning of so you don't end up at the wrong spot. You can count on this person to know how to stay out of trouble and in compliance. If you're not a type-A person, you especially need Reminders in your life!

3. The Listener: This person is always an open door for you. This is who you call when someone's under your skin, or who you visit when you just need a big hug. They'll listen WITHOUT judging or giving advice. This could be a therapist, coach, mentor, family member, or friend.

4. The Peer: This person holds the same job as you, but in another organization or on an adjacent team. They understand what it's like to be in the weeds in the work that you do, and can sympathize and make suggestions in a way nobody else can. They can see holes in your plans, share hacks to make the work more efficient and help you see options you hadn't considered before. 

Looking for a peer group? If you're a principal, assistant principal, director of operations, or director of support services, you're in luck! Mindful Leader Coaching is facilitating small-group virtual Mastermind groups for the 2024-25 school year. Learn more here!