I found it very interesting to read (Donham, 2005, p297) that, according to Collins (2000) the TL can’t be an expert at everything as there are so many facets to the job.
Collins advocates we establish where our strengths lie and capitalize on those strengths while maintaining ‘acceptable performance’ (Donham, 2005, p298) in the other areas of the role. To me, however, this does sound a little like accepting complacency. I would agree with capitalising on my strengths and ensuring my other roles are performed at an acceptable level, but I would add that we should nevertheless strive to continue to improve our performance in those areas in which we don’t excel – even if we just make minor improvements, we are still moving forward and improving the level of our service.
Collins (in Donham,2005, p297) also advocates following our passion. I have always been passionate about reading and have always wanted to be a librarian. It has taken me a long time to achieve my goal, but I am finally working as a Teacher Librarian and absolutely love it! I miss teaching those gorgeous 4 year olds – but I am so happy I decided to apply for the vacant TL position at my school.
One thing I really appreciated this week was the reminder by Roy Crotty to blog. Thanks Roy – it has got me back on track after many months absence!
Donham (2005 p.303) sees blogging as ‘a strategy that helps sustain the energy that leadership demands. It requires discipline to journal daily’. I agree that it takes discipline to blog, but I am not one who indulges in blogging just for the sake of it. To write down rational thoughts that have relevance or a purpose requires time.
I do like Donham’s suggestion, however, that ‘a leadership journal entry might simply ask each day:
• What did I learn today?
• Whom did I nurture today?
• What challenge did I confront today?
• How did I make a positive difference today?’
As I struggle to leave work each day before 6pm (and I start at 7:30 am) it might be unrealistic to expect it to happen on a daily basis.
On a personal note, about making a positive difference, I had my ‘Review and Development’ session yesterday with my line manager Jacqui (who heads our 4 school libraries) and the Deputy Principal and while I have only been in the position for six months they both stressed what an asset it was that I am such a positive person who has created such a warm, welcoming environment (to not just children but staff and parents) in our Junior Library. It was great hearing that praise!
As I was writing this entry a chocolate throated kingfisher flew down to sit on our pool fence! I haven’t seen him for months, so was delighted to see him back. (Of course I am assuming it is the same bird!) I raced to take a photo but sadly he had gone by the time I got my IPad out.
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