School principals have a lot on their plates. According to a 2019 report by the Learning Policy Institute and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the job's challenges—students' and parents' increasing needs, lack of resources, and the stress of accountability systems—have led to an 18 percent average turnover rate for public school principals (and 21 percent for high-poverty schools). Yet, as the following principals shared with us on Twitter, many have found workable strategies and support to juggle the responsibilities.
Doing principal "read-alouds" as often as possible. It gets me with kids in a fun and interactive way and I get to carefully select the best and newest books to help build excitement around reading! The kids love to see which book I'm bringing to read to them. —@Principal_Burns
Talk to fellow admins, teachers, students, parents, support staff—clerical, custodial, food service. Find out what is on everyone else's plate. It may help you find solutions to your own pressures. Listen without judgement. —@whesmesposito
Using @BreneBrown'sBRAVING framework. When everyone understands the need for vulnerability, trust, and generosity, it creates collective responsibility and removes the pressure of doing this courageous work alone. —@karamieszanek
The one strategy that helps me to manage the pressures of the principalship is seeing every situation as a learning opportunity and use that learning as I move forward to make even better choices and decisions to support the needs of the school community. —@gillgurmeet01
Incorporating mindfulness into my daily practice has had a profound impact. Starting with something as simple as mindful walking has grown into an essential part of my day. —@aromoslawski
Every Monday, I place five blank notecards on my desk, By the end of the week, I make sure they are gone: notes of "I noticed …" or words of gratitude to teachers, students, staff, or parents. If, by Friday, some are left, I don't leave the office until they are written! —@mmnellen
Being transparent about what and how I need support from my colleagues and district supervisors. It's not saying that I can't do it but saying that I need guidance on how to do it better. —@dr_amandaaustin
I manage the pressures of principalship by scheduling daily classroom time. The coach in me gets to give teachers feedback on the spot and the teacher in me gets to ask students to share their thinking process. It's a win-win-win! —@yaraylsa
I have a dedicated five-minute reflection time at the end of the day. I write my thoughts, thanks, and lessons learned in my diary. Every now and then I revisit and can track my journey as a leader. —@IKarariga
Getting in the classroom! Nothing relieves the pressure like seeing students loving their classes and teachers. It reminds us of why we do what we do each day! —@justinhefner
I determine which big rocks I will handle and delegate the other rocks to my admin team. My secretary helps by monitoring my calendar and incoming calls. This is a game changer. —@elvisepps
I have a strong, cohesive leadership team that I trust unequivocally. They offer great insight and perspective, and their collaboration and support make all the difference. This job never feels lonely because of these incredible educators. —@KWPrincipalWorc
I go to a gym class where I don't have to make any decisions. The instructors just tell me what to do and I do it, for a whole hour! It really does help reset my head space. —@SDNG02
I remember the days flying by during my first year as an elementary school principal. I focused on refining my procedures and structures, but something was missing. After reading Peaks and Valleys by Spencer Johnson, I realized that I was missing the opportunity to celebrate small moments and finish each day with a peak. Now, we celebrate all sorts of things (a high five from a student, a teacher who tried a new lesson, a small-group student voice session). No matter how challenging the day, ask yourself, "What was my peak today?" —@mtelischak
Responses lightly edited for clarity.
More on this topic: Leading with Joy
