Sept. 1, 2025

43. 23 Ways to Be a Better School Leader

43. 23 Ways to Be a Better School Leader
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School leadership is rewarding — and relentless. In this energizing episode, I walk listeners through 23 practical habits and mindset shifts that strengthen influence, improve decision-making, and protect leaders from burnout. Drawing on leadership research and everyday school leadership realities, I cover tactical moves (be visible, have difficult talks,mentor & coach), mindset anchors (choose a growth mindset, listen with empathy, know yourself), and wellbeing practices (go offline, practice mindfulness, take good care of you). This episode serves as a toolkit for principals, assistant principals, instructional leaders, and aspiring school leaders who seek intentional, steady growth.

Episode highlights — The essentials (selected items from the 23)

  • Pause More. React Less. — Create space to think, avoid knee-jerk decisions.
  • Listen with Curiosity. — Ask questions, build trust, uncover solutions.
  • Adapt Quickly & Pivot. — Expect change; adjust sails, don’t stay on autopilot.
  • Be Approachable. — Visibility, warmth, and active listening reduce barriers.
  • Fail Fast Forward. — Experiment, learn, iterate — make it safe to try.
  • Be Purpose Driven & Take Care of You. — Lead from your “why” and protect your capacity.

Whether you are a new principal, a veteran school leader, or an aspiring administrator, this episode provides practical, bite-sized leadership habits you can start using tomorrow.

Call to Action: If this episode added value to your leadership journey, do me a favor.

✅ Join the School Leaders' Podcast Community on Facebook for deeper discussions!
✅ Visit www.DrGHarrigan.com for blogs, newsletters, and more leadership resources.
✅ Follow, subscribe, rate, and leave a 5-star review wherever you listen—help ignite leadership in others, too!
✅ Share this episode with fellow leaders if it adds value to you.

Connect with Dr. Gastrid Harrigan

Website: https://www.drgharrigan.com/

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gastrid-harrigan-4b117333/

 

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