Time for Renewal and Balance
Spring is one of those times of year when renewal is very apparent. I know the calendar says that technically we are now in spring. When we look outside it doesn’t feel like spring yet, but it is on its way. The days are longer, the sun has more heat. Renewal is on its way. 
In Clearview Public Schools we have an emphasis on health and wellness this year across the division. If we are in a more healthy position individually we are better able to help those around us. We talk about the importance of offering hope and opportunity. We talk about how so much of our work hinges on the strength of our relationships. I think that renewal is essential if we are to be most effective in the important work we do. We have to balance work, family, health, volunteer activities, and the list goes on. There are many things that demand our attention.
That is why renewal is so important. If I ignore the fuel gauge on my vehicle it will run out of gas. We can also run out of gas. The way to counteract that, and to continue to be a vital component of offering hope and opportunity is to be sure we practice renewal and balance ourselves. We have to balance the many demands placed upon us so that we can be effective in all areas. If one area gets too much attention then the other areas suffer and we start to ignore those “gauges” in our life. I don’t forget this, but I do not always model it the best. That is part of the challenge; to balance the parts of our lives so that we can be as effective as possible in every area. Personally, I find that when my focus gets off where it should be, that is when things start to get out of
balance. When that happens I need renewal in my life. I need to step back and renew my focus.
Most careers involve work beyond “office hours” but that does not mean we should not strive to have balance in our lives, and pay attention to renewal.~IN fact, it makes it even more vital that we do just that. It is hard to strike a balance when you are a dedicated professional. What we have to remember is that when things are in better balance; when we practice renewal, then those we work with will benefit. They will benefit because they are getting us at our best.~~
We have many wonderful staff within Clearview; people who are doing superb work for others every day. We want that to continue. So my challenge to you is to strive to keep a proper balance in your life. Be sure renewal is part of what you do. This will help you do what is best for everyone else you come in contact with and have an impact upon.
As we enter into the last few months of the school year, there is no doubt that we have challenges to face. The best way we can face those is to be sure we practice balance and renewal in our lives. “Anything that does not belong where it is, is an ‘open loop’ pulling on your attention”-David Allen
John Bailey
Superintendent of Schools
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