Have you ever paused to reflect on what it feels like to be a new learner? Do you remember the anxiety of stepping into unfamiliar territory, the uncertainty of not knowing how to proceed, or the discomfort of making mistakes in front of others? As school leaders and coaches, it’s easy to become so entrenched in our roles as guides and mentors that we forget the raw vulnerability of being a beginner. What if we could reconnect with these feelings to deepen our empathy and effectiveness? How might our own experiences of learning and growth shape the way we support and inspire the educators we work with? These questions have become especially poignant for me following my recent experience in yoga teacher training, a journey that illuminated the profound impact of embracing vulnerability and new learning.
Engaging in a new learning experience, particularly something outside my professional realm, was a revealing journey. As someone who is often seen as an “expert” in my field, it starkly reminded me of the discomfort and uncertainty that accompany being a novice. I faced the sting of making mistakes, received critical feedback, and grappled with the unease of not performing at my best—emotions that resonate deeply with the experiences of our teachers. Many of them, under the relentless pressure of teacher evaluations, state tests, and the pursuit of perfection, feel a constant burden to excel and meet high standards. This pressure can be paralyzing, hindering their willingness to take risks or embrace new learning. My recent experience underscored just how important it is to empathize with these challenges and support our educators with a deeper understanding of their vulnerabilities.
This vulnerability—feeling exposed and unsure—was a powerful reminder of what it means to be in the learner’s shoes. It highlighted the importance of understanding and empathy in our roles as leaders and coaches.
My yoga teacher training provided invaluable lessons on effective coaching and leadership that can be directly applied to our roles as school leaders and coaches. Here’s how we can embody these insights:
- Embrace Vulnerability: Just as I experienced discomfort in my yoga training, school leaders and coaches should be willing to share their own learning journeys and struggles. By openly discussing our challenges and seeking feedback, we model the courage to be vulnerable. This transparency helps create a culture where educators feel safe to take risks and grow. Consider sharing your own learning experiences with your team and encourage them to do the same, fostering an environment where everyone feels supported in their journey.
- Build Authentic Relationships: Effective leadership and coaching are grounded in trust and empathy. To build genuine connections, take time to understand the personal and professional challenges your teachers face. Engage in active listening and show empathy in your interactions. Schedule regular check-ins with educators to discuss their progress and well-being, and offer support tailored to their specific needs and goals.
- Balance Support and Challenge: Just as my best yoga instructors offered both challenge and guidance, we should strive to find the right balance between setting high expectations and providing adequate support. Challenge your team with ambitious goals, but also provide the resources, feedback, and encouragement they need to achieve them. Develop a framework for setting clear, high standards while ensuring that support mechanisms are in place to help educators meet those expectations.
- Provide Constructive Feedback: Clear and actionable feedback is crucial for growth. When giving feedback, be specific and focus on practical steps for improvement. Create a feedback loop where educators feel comfortable discussing their progress and challenges. Incorporate regular, structured feedback sessions that highlight both strengths and areas for development, ensuring that your feedback is always asset-based and aimed at fostering growth.
- Encourage Ownership and Growth: Encourage teachers to take ownership of their professional development by setting their own goals and identifying areas for growth. Support them in creating actionable plans to achieve these goals and celebrate their progress along the way. By empowering educators to lead their own learning, you foster a sense of agency and commitment to their development. Offer guidance and resources to help them navigate their growth journey and recognize their achievements to motivate continued progress.
By integrating these lessons into our leadership and coaching practices, we can create a more empathetic, supportive, and effective environment for our educators. This approach not only enhances their growth but also strengthens the overall impact of our leadership and coaching efforts.
Stepping out of our leadership and coaching roles to become learners ourselves can significantly enhance our effectiveness. It fosters empathy, strengthens relationships, and reminds us of the courage it takes to embrace new challenges. By experiencing the vulnerability of being a beginner, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges our teachers face and can offer more meaningful support. Let’s use these insights to enrich our coaching practices and lead with greater empathy and effectiveness, ultimately fostering a more supportive and dynamic learning environment for everyone.
Written by: Jackie Surratt
