This may not be an appropriate way to start my first presidential blog. It might be better to trend toward a pep talk with a #squadgoals. However, we are amongst friends and so in choosing transparency I’d like to start with a confession. I’m hoping that, this year, you’ll observe that a main goal of my presidency and this current board will be transparency. So with that in mind, here goes: The start of the school is just around the corner and, frankly, I’m uncomfortable. Not uncomfortable like my pants are too tight, but uncomfortable in that “don’t know what I don’t know” kind of way. Scared may be too strong and panicky is not how I like to operate, but I am certainly uncomfortable.
After 20 years in this gig, I don’t typically find myself surprised. We’ve certainly experienced significant shifts over the years, but this fall feels different. The conversations are exciting and we are all on the edge of our seats waiting to see how Coalition, PPY and the latest SAT will play out. In a twisted way, it’s fun. So much to talk about and it’s certainly not business as usual. This year, I’m choosing to revel in my discomfort. I’ve come to the conclusion that I spend way too much time in the pursuit of my own comfort and that pursuit often hinders my growth. I’m also hoping the discomfort that I’m feeling will help me better identify with my students. It’s easy to get into a pattern of telling them not to worry. Telling them not to worry is like telling them not to blink. Or breathe in and out. They are going to worry so let’s embrace the discomfort, have real conversations and learn together.
Despite the unknowns in our process, I’m excited about this year. The conversations, debate and creative solutions will require more collaboration that ever before and I could not be more proud to be a part of WACAC. I’m honored to lead this organization in its fiftieth year and I’m confident in our organizations ability to affect change across many educational fronts. There will be more news in the near future about our specific goals this year, but as you begin this school year, this board stands ready to support you so don’t hesitate to ask.
Thanks for the transparency. It does go a long way and as new counselor it is refreshing to know I am not alone.
Spot on, Jeff…You write like an experienced college counselor! So grateful that WACAC has you in their Golden Anniversary – you are pure gold for this organization. Your topic and your slant will speak volumes to those who share a similar intimidation of the upcoming year and the numerous changes in this industry.
Thanks!
I appreciate your transparency and your humor. I’m grateful to serve as a delegate with your authentic leadership! While this upcoming year will have its challenges, I’m grateful to have this amazing organization of professionals to band together through the year.
I love the “embrace of the new and what makes us uncomfortable.” After all, that is the hallmark of the journey we are queuing our students up for. As a post script, I do feel like the pants are getting too tight. But, to my surprise, I have added a few pair of skinny-trousers (not what the kids would say) to my arsenal. And, I feel good wearing them.
Your gonna crush your lap around the track carrying the WACAC baton.
Way to embrace!
“Let’s embrace the discomfort!” Wonderfully stated, Jeff! I’m going to use that one a lot, I can tell. Thank you for the excellent reminder. ?
Thanks, Heidi!
Bravo, Jeff. I am ready to be uncomfortable knowing we are a strong professional group and our strength will be defined in our amazing students.