As a parent of two wonderful daughters (now grown and gone), I, along with my wife, am extremely pleased they have grown to become responsible adults and outstanding citizens. We would love to take full credit for this outcome but, in reality, the teachers and role models that our daughters had over the years gave them the confidence and skills that strongly supported our parental responsibilities. Bottom line, teachers are critically important to the success of our children, our families, and our society in general.

Recently I had the good fortune of reading a new book entitled A+ Teaching: 180 Ways to Enhance Your Success as a Teacher. This resource is jam-packed with “How To” teaching techniques from over 90 educators, parents, and students. Here are some tips from the book that are also very applicable guidelines for leaders at all levels:

#22          Don’t play the “blame game.” When intervening in conflict situations, avoid questions like, “Who started this?” or “Who’s at fault here?” Such inquiries tend to produce defensiveness and increase tension. Keep everyone focused on finding solutions rather than pointing fingers.

#70          Disagree respectfully. Consider what you would want to hear and how you would want to hear it. You can respectfully disagree with others by saying something like, “I appreciate your insightfulness, but I think we see things differently. Can I count on you to listen to my viewpoint just as I have listened to yours?”

#117        Do not isolate yourself at work. Schedule times to chat with colleagues in person instead of emailing. Attend colleague social gatherings. Eat lunch with coworkers a few times a week. Such socialization provides a sense of acceptance and belonging which is important to your mental health.

180 Ways to Enhance Your Success as a Teacher

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