Being a Character Builder - McEwan-Chapter 1 - Habit # 2 of 7 Habits in Dealing Positively with Difficult Teachers

McEwan stresses the significance of being a role model "whose values words and deeds are marked by trustworthiness, integrity, authenticity, respect, generosity, and humility." (p. 5-6)  Though it doesn't appear to be something she is practicing as you listen to the overall voice of the book, she reminds me of the need to sit back a bit and take stock in whether I am serving as a good role model. 

At work we are struggling with significant budget issues.  Tempers are short and people are engaged in desparate measures to try to prevail on given practices.  I found myself resentful and angry at some of the intellectual dishonesty (intentional misrepresentation of the fact) and gorilla tactics being used by the union (sit-ins, arm bands, etc.) to try to prevent certain cuts.  McEwan reminded me to come at the issue with more humility and respect--to be more generous in spirit as I grapple with these issues and navigate the college environment. 

Toward that end, I am reconsidering my responses, my reactions.  I am trying to understand more.  It certainly clears the air and gives me more room to be effective in navigating these hard times. If I model anger and resentment, that is what I am likely to get back.  Go figure.... :)

Assertiveness

McEwan begins the discussion of the habits of effective Principals with the concept of assertiveness.  Her distinction between assertiveness as a positive forthright approach to leadership and agressiveness that serves to humiliate, bully and demoralize others is very helpful.  As I developed professionally and navigated many environments full of posturing and positioning, and full of processes and conditions that didn't quite pass the common sense test, I felt the need to speak the truth - say things out loud, call it like it is and call it a duck if it waddled and quacked.  The important thing is that I had to figure out the difference between assertiveness and aggressiveness.  This required self reflection -- to be able to think about my own values, my own presence, my own professional and emotional maturity.  As I became more clear about those things, I was able to rely more on my inclination or disposition to do the right thing and treat people with respect while effectively addressing issues that need to be addressed. 

Welcome to EDUC 407 Human Resources

Well it is Spring again and we are all set to start a new session of EDUC 407 Human Resources. I hope I have prepared a class that will be enjoyable, instructive and provocative all at the same time. We will work hard and get the most out of it as community of scholars and learners. We will openly reflect and challenge each others and ourselves. Let's go above and beyond that which is minimally required of us to become the leaders we wish for.

In as much as human resources managment is about human relations, I am hoping to have this class reveal the inner talents in each of the participants. Experiencing the intersection of theory and praxis opens a world of opportunity up for us as scholars, educators and leaders. We will see, this course should make a difference. I wonder what the class is expecting when they see the title Human Resources. We shall see. :)

Regina Stanback Stroud