Description
Book SynopsisUncommon Leaders have a gift: While inspiring and serving others with integrity, they also model a commitment to self-care and reflective practices. These skillful leaders are focused on being intentional and mindful of their values, beliefs, and guiding principles---in short, they live well. This high level of self-awareness informs the leader's capacity to model courage and integrity---to lead strong. Grounded in their beliefs and values, these leaders routinely offer skillful feedback that impacts performance; they also have the capacity to plan and hold difficult conversations with professionalism. Uncommon Leadership supplies the reader with practical strategies, information and exercises to develop skills, as well as inspirational ideas for maintaining strong and effective leadership over a sustained period of time. Each chapter includes ways in which the reader may transfer their learning to their own practice, as well as a graphic quote that serves as a reminder of key po
Trade ReviewDebbie McFalone has a gift for helping school leaders find balance and fulfillment in their work. This book provides wisdom and practical ideas to help you develop habits of reflection and intentionality, stem the tide of unending tasks, and lead your school in a way that aligns to the values that brought you into this field in the first place. At the same time, McFalone provides guidance on navigating some of the thornier leadership skills: having difficult conversations, giving critical feedback, and building resilience during tough times. With all of these thoughtful practices and strategies, leaders will undoubtedly walk away recharged and better equipped to lead their schools. -- Jenn David-Laing, Publisher, The Main Idea
Filled with stories and examples, McFalone is honest, pointed, and informative as she discusses crucial aspects of leadership. She dares us to become Uncommon Leaders and provides guidance to achieve that goal. A great read for current leaders as well as those have a desire to increase their skills and grow in their leadership abilities. -- Eileen Depka Ph.D, author, educator, and consultant
This is more than a book. It is an engaging learning and teaching guide perfect to help leaders make a difference in their organization as they “Live Well, Lead Strong.” The writing is a true representation of Dr. McFalone--- warm, thoughtful and full of wisdom. Every educator needs to read this book! -- Scott Korpak, superintendent, Northview Public Schools, Michigan
Table of ContentsList of Figures List of Tables Preface Acknowledgements Introduction Part I: Live Well Chapter 1: It’s Really All About You: Uncommon Leaders Think and Then Act Chapter 2: So How Am I Supposed to Do This? The Will to Develop Habits of Reflection and Mindfulness Chapter 3: So How Am I Supposed to Do This? Time Management Strategies for Reflection and Mindfulness Chapter 4: Transition: Where Mindfulness and Courage Meet Part II: Lead Strong Chapter 5: The Courage to Offer Skillful Feedback Chapter 6: Difficult Conversations: Let’s Not Avoid Them! Chapter 7: Setting Up for Success: Planning for Difficult Conversations Chapter 8: Strong for The Journey: Seven Steps to Cultivate Resilience About the Author
