A Reader Writes... (Advice for the First Year Principal - Part 9)

In response to the post, "Advice for the First Year Principal – Part 5," a reader writes:

I may agree with the writer, depending on what he or she calls “morale.” Based on my definition of morale, if morale drops it is because people do not have the skills, training, and confidence to carry out the leader’s vision. Or in the worst case scenario, the leader has no vision. This has NOTHING to do with happiness or being content.

SC Response

Morale, a useful tool for the effective leader, the Achilles Heel of the weak one. The effective leader recognizes that morale is a function of:

1. Belief in the mission of the organization.

2. Belief that the training provided by the organization will allow one to fulfill that mission.

3. Trust that leadership will place one in a position to be effective and valued.

The effective leader understands that performance leads morale.

The ineffective leader mistakenly believes that morale is a function of happiness, feeling good, and the absence of stress. The ineffective leader hopes that morale leads performance.

The ineffective leader says, “if only…” a lot. The effective leader says…

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...