We all know that term 4 is ballistic! It is always a hectic time of the school year and we are inevitably running low on reserves. However, saying or doing something dumb in term 4 wipes out all of the good work that you have done throughout the year. The mantra of all staff in schools, especially leaders, needs to be FINISH STRONG!

Attitudes are contagious, especially the leaders. If you are frantic, short with people and irritable that sets the tone for your staff. Let’s face it, no one cares how busy YOU are, they only care how busy THEY are!

Here are five strategies to make sure you finish the year well!

Live the Reputation You Want to Have
At this time of year it is important to be calm, organised and upbeat.

Praise Challenge
Find five opportunities each day to praise or thank somebody. Your comments need to be genuine, personal and specific. You will be amazed at how well the positive vibe spreads.

Increase Visibility
It is even more important than ever to be out and about. I know you have a lot to do but locking yourself away creates a disconnect when people need you the most.

Use the Pareto Principle
We get 80% of our results from 20% of our time. There are some critical times of the day when you have the most impact. Use this to your advantage. For example, being available to staff in that hour before school starts in the morning is peak time.

Ruthlessly Use Your Time
There is a lot to be done and not enough time. Focus and get serious about doing the important work, the things that matter and make a difference and doing them at the right time. Constantly reflect on, “What is the most important thing I can be doing with this time I have available?”

Make your mantra for the rest of the year, “FINISH STRONG!”